LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
Melbourne Storm player Eli Katoa will be sidelined for the entire 2026 NRL season as he focuses on recovering from brain surgery necessitated by previous head injuries.
The back rower sustained several head injuries while representing Tonga in the Pacific Championships, which concluded his season.
Katoa had a collision with teammate Lehi Hopoate ahead of a Test match against New Zealand at Eden Park and encountered two additional head injuries during the match.
On the sidelines, he experienced seizure activity and was promptly taken to a hospital where surgeons operated on a brain bleed.
The 25-year-old remained in Auckland for an extended period before returning to Melbourne for further assessments by hospital specialists.
He has since been discharged and will continue his recovery at home.
"Eli's health and wellbeing remain the number one priority," said Storm chief executive Justin Rodski. "It is great to have him home safely and under the care of the club doctor and local specialists. He is improving each day and looking forward to continuing his rehabilitation from home."