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Melbourne Storm backrower Eli Katoa has been officially ruled out the complete 2026 rugby league season as he focuses on rehabilitation at home in Victoria, following coming back from a extended period in Auckland where he underwent a neurosurgical procedure.

What Happened

The 25-year-old athlete suffered three separate head injuries in a single match while playing for Tonga in a international fixture versus the Kiwis. Subsequently, he experienced seizures while off the field, necessitating emergency medical attention.

A medical operation to relieve a brain bleed resulted in Katoa hospitalized and temporarily grounded back to Melbourne.

The team revealed this week that the forward has finally returned home and is on the mend, having also been briefly admitted to a local medical facility.

“His health and recovery are our number one priority,” stated the club's chief executive Justin Rodski. “We are thrilled to have him back home and under the care of our club doctor and specialist physicians.”

The Road to Recovery

Rodski added that the athlete is making daily progress and is eager to pursuing his recovery in a home environment.

Importantly, the CEO stated that there is no timeframe for Katoa’s recovery or a comeback to the field.

“After discussions with our doctor and neurology experts, Katoa won't be back to training during the preseason and is ruled out for the 2026 season,” Rodski declared. “He has a lengthy recovery process in his recovery, and his focus will be on achieving complete wellness prior to contemplating a potential comeback to rugby league activities.”

Rodski concluded by saying that Eli is a highly valued and respected member of our team and club, and that the entire club will support him fully and assist him during his recovery.

League Investigation

The National Rugby League is currently finalizing its investigation into the events that led to 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 concussion during the warm-up for the Pacific Championship match.

Despite this, Katoa was allowed to play in the match and endured two additional blows to the head before coming off in the later stages.

Katoa’s condition deteriorated quickly, and he required oxygen beside the field before being taken off on a medicab.

The NRL has attempted to address concerns around head injuries in the sport in recent seasons, introducing stricter enforcement on dangerous contact and lengthening the post-concussion stand down period for injured athletes.