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The Storm forward Eli Katoa will miss the complete 2026 rugby league season as he continues his recovery at home in his home state, following coming back from a extended period in New Zealand where he underwent a neurosurgical procedure.

What Happened

The 25-year-old athlete sustained three head impacts in a single match while playing for the Tongan national team in a Pacific Championship fixture against the Kiwis. This led to seizures while on the sideline, requiring emergency medical attention.

A surgical procedure to relieve a brain bleed left the player hospitalized and temporarily grounded back to Melbourne.

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

“Eli’s health and wellbeing are our top concern,” said Storm CEO Justin Rodski. “We are thrilled to have him home safely and under the supervision of our medical staff and local specialists.”

Recovery and Rehabilitation

Rodski noted that the athlete is making daily progress and is looking forward to continuing his rehabilitation in a home environment.

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

“In consultation with our doctor and neurology experts, Katoa won't be back to training during the preseason and won’t be available for the upcoming season,” Rodski declared. “There is a lengthy recovery process ahead of him, and his primary goal will be on achieving complete wellness prior to contemplating any form of return to training.”

Rodski concluded by saying that Katoa is a much loved and respected part of the squad and organization, and that the Storm family will rally around him and support him through his rehabilitation period.

League Investigation

The National Rugby League is currently finalizing its inquiry into the circumstances that led to the required neurosurgery.

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

However, he was cleared to participate in the game and endured two additional blows to the head before being substituted in the later stages.

His state worsened rapidly, and he required oxygen on the sideline before being taken off on a medicab.

The NRL has attempted to address issues around concussions in the sport in recent seasons, introducing stricter enforcement on high tackles and expanding the post-concussion stand down period for injured athletes.