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The Storm forward Eli Katoa has been officially ruled out the complete 2026 rugby league season as he focuses on rehabilitation at home in his home state, after returning from a prolonged stay in New Zealand where he underwent a neurosurgical procedure.

What Happened

The 25-year-old athlete suffered three separate head injuries in a single afternoon while representing the Tongan national team in a Pacific Championship match versus the Kiwis. This led to convulsions while off the field, necessitating emergency medical attention.

A medical operation to address bleeding on the brain left Katoa hospitalized and temporarily grounded back to Melbourne.

The club revealed this week that the forward has finally returned home and is on the mend, having also made a brief visit to a local medical facility.

“Eli’s health and wellbeing are our number one priority,” said the club's chief executive a team official. “We are thrilled to have him back home and under the supervision of our medical staff and specialist physicians.”

The Road to Recovery

Rodski added that the player is improving each day and is looking forward to pursuing his recovery from home.

However, the executive confirmed that there is no set timeline for Katoa’s recovery or a potential return to training.

“After discussions with our medical team and neurology experts, Katoa won't be back to training during the preseason and is ruled out for the 2026 season,” he emphasized. “He has a lengthy recovery process in his recovery, and his primary goal will be on returning to full health prior to contemplating a potential comeback to rugby league activities.”

Rodski concluded by noting that Eli is a highly valued and respected part of the squad and organization, and that the entire club will rally around him and support him through his rehabilitation period.

Broader Context

The National Rugby League is currently finalizing its investigation into the events that resulted in the required neurosurgery.

The talented player, who was selected for the league's best lineup at the recent Dally M awards, appeared to suffer a head injury during the pregame routine for the international contest.

Despite this, Katoa was allowed to play in the match and suffered two additional blows to the head before being substituted in the second half.

His state deteriorated quickly, and he needed medical oxygen on the sideline before being removed from the field on a medicab.

The league has sought to tackle issues around concussions in the game in recent years, introducing stricter enforcement on high tackles and lengthening the post-concussion stand down period for injured athletes.