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The Storm backrower Eli Katoa will miss the entire 2026 NRL season as he continues his recovery at home in Victoria, after returning from a prolonged stay in New Zealand where he underwent a neurosurgical procedure.

What Happened

The 25-year-old suffered three head impacts in a single match while playing for Tonga in a international fixture versus New Zealand. Subsequently, he experienced convulsions while off the field, requiring urgent medical care.

A surgical procedure to relieve bleeding on the brain left Katoa in the hospital and initially unable to travel to his club base.

The club announced this week that Katoa has finally returned home and is on the mend, having also been briefly admitted to a Melbourne hospital.

“His health and recovery are our top concern,” stated Storm CEO Justin Rodski. “It is great to have him home safely and under the care of our medical staff and specialist physicians.”

The Road to Recovery

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

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

“In consultation with our doctor and neuro specialists, Eli will not return to training this pre-season and is ruled out for the 2026 season,” he emphasized. “There is a lengthy recovery process ahead of him, and his primary goal will be on achieving complete wellness before considering a potential comeback to rugby league activities.”

Rodski concluded by saying that Katoa is a highly valued and respected part of the squad and club, and that the Storm family will rally around him and assist him during his recovery.

League Investigation

The National Rugby League is currently finalizing its inquiry into the events that resulted in 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.

Despite this, he was allowed to play in the game and suffered two additional blows to the head before coming off in the second half.

Katoa’s condition deteriorated quickly, and he needed medical oxygen on the sideline before being taken off on a stretcher.

The NRL has attempted to address issues around concussions in the sport in recent years, introducing stricter enforcement on dangerous contact and lengthening the post-concussion stand down period for injured athletes.