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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 his home state, following coming back from a extended period in New Zealand where he underwent a neurosurgical procedure.

What Happened

The 25-year-old athlete sustained three separate head injuries in a single match while playing for the Tongan national team in a Pacific Championship match versus the Kiwis. This led to seizures while on the sideline, requiring urgent medical care.

A medical operation to address bleeding on the brain left the player in the hospital and initially unable to travel to his club base.

The club revealed this week that the forward has finally returned home and is recovering, having also been briefly admitted to a Melbourne hospital.

“His health and recovery remain our top concern,” said Storm CEO a team official. “It is great to have him home safely and under the care of our medical staff and local specialists.”

Recovery and Rehabilitation

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

Importantly, the CEO confirmed that there is no set timeline for Katoa’s recovery or a comeback to the field.

“After discussions with our medical team and neuro specialists, Katoa will not return to practice this pre-season and is ruled out for the upcoming season,” Rodski declared. “There is a long road ahead ahead of him, and his focus will be on returning to full health prior to contemplating any form of return to rugby league activities.”

Rodski finished by saying that Eli is a highly valued and respected part of the squad and club, and that the Storm family will support him fully and assist him during his rehabilitation period.

League Investigation

The National Rugby League is wrapping up its investigation into the events that resulted in Katoa’s surgery.

The talented player, who was named in the league's best lineup at the recent Dally M awards, seemed to sustain a head injury during the pregame routine for the international contest.

However, he was cleared to participate in the match and suffered two more head impacts before coming off in the second half.

Katoa’s condition deteriorated quickly, and he required oxygen beside the field before being removed from the field on a stretcher.

The league has sought to tackle issues around head injuries in the sport in recent years, introducing crackdowns on high tackles and expanding the post-concussion stand down period for affected players.