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The Storm backrower Eli Katoa will miss the complete 2026 rugby league season as he continues his recovery at home in Victoria, following coming back 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 match while playing for Tonga in a international fixture versus the Kiwis. This led to convulsions while off the field, requiring urgent medical care.

A medical operation to relieve a brain bleed left the player in the hospital and temporarily grounded back to Melbourne.

The club announced 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 top concern,” stated Storm CEO Justin Rodski. “We are thrilled to have him home safely and under the care of our medical staff and local specialists.”

The Road to Recovery

Rodski added that the player is improving each day and is eager to pursuing his recovery in a home environment.

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

“In consultation with our doctor and neuro specialists, Katoa won't be back to training this pre-season and is ruled out for the 2026 season,” he emphasized. “There is a lengthy recovery process in his recovery, and his focus will be on returning to full health prior to contemplating any form of return to training.”

Rodski concluded by saying that Katoa is a highly valued and respected member of our team and club, and that the Storm family will rally around him and support him through his recovery.

League Investigation

The NRL is wrapping up its investigation into the circumstances that led to Katoa’s surgery.

The talented player, who was selected for the league's best lineup at the annual awards ceremony, appeared to suffer a head injury during the pregame routine for the Pacific Championship match.

Despite this, he was allowed to play in the match and suffered two more head impacts before being substituted in the later stages.

His state worsened rapidly, and he needed medical oxygen on the sideline 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 lengthening the mandatory recovery time for affected players.