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Melbourne Storm backrower Eli Katoa has been officially ruled out the entire 2026 rugby league season as he continues his recovery at home in his home state, after returning from a prolonged stay in Auckland after undergoing brain surgery.

Sequence of Events

The 25-year-old sustained three separate head injuries during a single afternoon while playing for the Tongan national team in a international match against the Kiwis. This led to seizures while off the field, necessitating urgent medical care.

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

The club revealed recently that Katoa has now come back and is recovering, having also made a brief visit to a local medical facility.

“Eli’s health and wellbeing remain our number one priority,” said the club's chief executive Justin Rodski. “It is great to have him home safely and under the supervision of our club doctor and local specialists.”

The Road to Recovery

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

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

“After discussions with our medical team and neuro specialists, Eli won't be back to training during the preseason and is ruled out for the upcoming season,” he emphasized. “There is a long road ahead in his recovery, and his focus will be on achieving complete wellness before considering any form of return to training.”

Rodski concluded by noting 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 rehabilitation period.

League Investigation

The NRL is wrapping up 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 head injury during the pregame routine for the Pacific Championship match.

However, he was allowed to play in the match and suffered two additional blows to the head before being substituted in the later stages.

His state deteriorated quickly, and he required oxygen on the sideline before being taken off on a stretcher.

The league has sought to tackle concerns around concussions in the game in recent seasons, implementing crackdowns on high tackles and lengthening the post-concussion stand down period for injured athletes.