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Melbourne Storm backrower Eli Katoa will miss the complete 2026 rugby league season as he focuses on rehabilitation at home in his home state, following returning from a extended period in Auckland after undergoing a neurosurgical procedure.

What Happened

The 25-year-old suffered three separate head injuries in a single match while representing Tonga in a Pacific Championship match against the Kiwis. Subsequently, he experienced seizures while off the field, necessitating urgent medical care.

A surgical procedure to address bleeding on the brain left Katoa in the hospital and initially unable to travel back to Melbourne.

The club revealed recently that Katoa has now come back and is recovering, having also been briefly admitted to a Melbourne hospital.

“His health and recovery are our top concern,” stated the club's chief executive Justin Rodski. “We are thrilled to have him home safely and under the supervision of our club doctor and specialist physicians.”

Recovery and Rehabilitation

Rodski noted that the player is improving each day and is looking forward to continuing his rehabilitation in a home environment.

Importantly, the CEO confirmed that there is no timeframe for Katoa’s recovery or a potential return to training.

“After discussions with our doctor and neuro specialists, Katoa will not return to training this pre-season and won’t be available for the 2026 season,” Rodski declared. “There is a long road ahead ahead of him, and his primary goal will be on achieving complete wellness prior to contemplating any form of return to rugby league activities.”

Rodski concluded by noting that Katoa is a highly valued and respected member of our team and organization, and that the Storm family will rally around him and support him through his recovery.

Broader Context

The NRL is wrapping up its investigation into the events that led to Katoa’s surgery.

The talented player, who was named in the competition’s team of the year at the annual awards ceremony, appeared to suffer a head injury during the warm-up for the Pacific Championship match.

However, he was allowed to play in the match and suffered two more head impacts before coming off in the later stages.

Katoa’s condition deteriorated quickly, and he required oxygen on the sideline before being removed from the field on a medicab.

The NRL has attempted to address issues around concussions in the game in recent seasons, implementing crackdowns on dangerous contact and lengthening the mandatory recovery time for affected players.