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Melbourne Storm forward 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 coming back from a extended period in New Zealand after undergoing a neurosurgical procedure.

What Happened

The 25-year-old sustained three head impacts during a single afternoon while playing for Tonga in a international match versus the Kiwis. Subsequently, he experienced seizures while off the field, necessitating emergency medical attention.

A surgical procedure to relieve a brain bleed resulted in Katoa in the hospital and temporarily grounded to his club base.

The club announced recently that the forward has finally returned home and is on the mend, having also been briefly admitted to a local medical facility.

“Eli’s health and wellbeing remain our top concern,” stated the club's chief executive a team official. “It is great to have him back home and under the care of our club doctor and local specialists.”

Recovery and Rehabilitation

Rodski added that the athlete 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.

“After discussions with our doctor and neurology experts, Eli will not return to practice this pre-season and is ruled out for the upcoming season,” Rodski declared. “There is a long road ahead in his recovery, and his focus will be on returning to full health prior to contemplating any form of return to training.”

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

Broader Context

The NRL is currently finalizing its inquiry into the events that led to Katoa’s surgery.

The powerful forward, who was selected for the league's best lineup at the annual awards ceremony, appeared to suffer a concussion during the pregame routine for the international contest.

However, Katoa was allowed to play in the game 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 medicab.

The league has attempted to address issues around concussions in the game in recent years, implementing crackdowns on high tackles and lengthening the mandatory recovery time for affected players.