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The Storm forward Eli Katoa will miss the entire 2026 rugby league season as he continues his recovery at home in his home state, following returning from a prolonged stay in Auckland where he underwent a neurosurgical procedure.

What Happened

The 25-year-old sustained three head impacts during a single match while representing the Tongan national team in a Pacific Championship match against the Kiwis. Subsequently, he experienced convulsions while off the field, necessitating emergency medical attention.

A surgical procedure to address a brain bleed left the player in the hospital and initially unable to travel to his club base.

The team revealed this week that Katoa has finally returned home and is on the mend, having also made a brief visit to a Melbourne hospital.

“Eli’s health and wellbeing are our number one priority,” said Storm CEO a team official. “It is great to have him back home and under the supervision of our medical staff and local specialists.”

Recovery and Rehabilitation

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

Importantly, the CEO confirmed that there is no set timeline for his return to health or a potential return to training.

“In consultation 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. “He has a lengthy recovery process in his recovery, and his focus will be on achieving complete wellness before considering a potential comeback to training.”

Rodski concluded by saying that Katoa is a highly valued and respected part of the squad and organization, and that the entire club will support him fully and assist him during his rehabilitation period.

League Investigation

The National Rugby League is currently finalizing 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 annual awards ceremony, seemed to sustain a concussion during the warm-up for the Pacific Championship match.

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

His state worsened rapidly, and he needed medical oxygen beside the field before being removed from the field on a medicab.

The league has attempted to address issues around concussions in the sport in recent seasons, implementing crackdowns on dangerous contact and lengthening the mandatory recovery time for affected players.