Storm Backrower Sidelined for 2026 Season After Brain Surgery

As of November 18th, 2025, Melbourne Storm backrower Eli Katoa has been ruled out for the entire 2026 season as he continues his recovery from brain surgery. The 25-year-old suffered a series of devastating head injuries last month while playing for Tonga in a Pacific Championship match against New Zealand.

Katoa experienced three separate impacts to the head during the game, which led to him suffering seizures on the sideline and requiring emergency medical attention. The concerning incident prompted Katoa to undergo a procedure to relieve bleeding on the brain, leaving him hospitalized and initially unable to travel back to Melbourne.

After a prolonged stay in Auckland, Katoa has now safely returned home to Victoria and is under the care of the Storm's club doctor and local specialists. While he is improving each day, the Storm has confirmed there is no set timeframe for Katoa's recovery or potential return to training.

"Eli's health and wellbeing remain our number one priority," said Storm chief executive Justin Rodski. "He has a long road ahead in his recovery, and his focus will be on returning to full health before considering any form of return to training."

The NRL is currently investigating the circumstances that led to Katoa's serious injuries, as the powerful forward appeared to suffer a concussion in the warm-up but was still allowed to play in the match. The league has been working to address concerns around head injuries in recent years, but this incident has highlighted the need for continued vigilance and player safety measures.