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Melbourne Storm forward Eli Katoa has been officially ruled out the complete 2026 NRL season as he focuses on rehabilitation at home in Victoria, following returning from a extended period in New Zealand after undergoing a neurosurgical procedure.

What Happened

The 25-year-old athlete suffered three head impacts during a single afternoon while representing Tonga in a international match against the Kiwis. This led to seizures while on the sideline, requiring emergency medical attention.

A surgical procedure to relieve a brain bleed resulted in Katoa in the hospital and temporarily grounded back to Melbourne.

The team announced this week that the forward has now come back and is recovering, having also made a brief visit to a local medical facility.

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

Recovery and Rehabilitation

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

Importantly, the executive stated that there is no timeframe for his return to health or a comeback to the field.

“After discussions with our doctor and neuro specialists, Eli will not return to practice this pre-season and is ruled out for the 2026 season,” Rodski declared. “There is a lengthy recovery process ahead of him, and his focus 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 club, and that the entire club will support him fully and assist him during his recovery.

Broader Context

The National Rugby League is wrapping up its investigation into the circumstances that resulted in the required neurosurgery.

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 warm-up for the international contest.

However, Katoa was allowed to play in the match and suffered two more head impacts before coming off in the second half.

His state deteriorated quickly, and he required oxygen beside the field before being removed from the field on a stretcher.

The NRL has sought to tackle issues around head injuries in the game in recent years, introducing stricter enforcement on dangerous contact and lengthening the mandatory recovery time for injured athletes.