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Melbourne Storm backrower Eli Katoa has been officially ruled out the complete 2026 rugby league season as he continues his recovery at home in his home state, following returning from a extended period in Auckland where he underwent a neurosurgical procedure.

What Happened

The 25-year-old sustained three head impacts during a single afternoon while playing for the Tongan national team in a international match against the Kiwis. Subsequently, he experienced seizures while on the sideline, necessitating urgent medical care.

A surgical procedure to relieve a brain bleed left the player in the hospital and initially unable to travel back to Melbourne.

The club revealed recently that Katoa has finally returned home and is recovering, having also been briefly admitted to a Melbourne hospital.

“Eli’s health and wellbeing are our top concern,” said the club's chief executive Justin Rodski. “It is great to have him back home and under the care of our medical staff and specialist physicians.”

The Road to Recovery

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

However, the CEO stated that there is no set timeline for his return to health or a comeback to the field.

“After discussions with our medical team and neuro specialists, Eli will not return to training during the preseason and is ruled out for the 2026 season,” he emphasized. “He has a long road ahead in his recovery, and his primary goal will be on returning to full health before considering a potential comeback to rugby league activities.”

Rodski finished by noting that Eli is a much loved and respected member of our team and club, and that the entire club will support him fully and support him through his rehabilitation period.

Broader Context

The National Rugby League is currently finalizing its investigation into the circumstances that resulted in Katoa’s surgery.

The talented player, who was named in 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.

However, Katoa was allowed to play in the game and suffered two additional blows to the head before coming off in the later stages.

His state 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 crackdowns on dangerous contact and expanding the mandatory recovery time for affected players.