The NRL has handed down two-year bans to Tonga XIII after concluding they mishandled the treatment of Eliesa Katoa during a test match against New Zealand.

The sanctions on the team's head doctor, assistant doctor and head trainer follow a serious incident on 2nd November 2025 at Eden Park in Auckland, when Katoa, playing for Tonga, suffered multiple head knocks, including a heavy collision in the warm-up and two separate hits during the match. 

Despite passing a mid-game Head Injury Assessment (HIA), Katoa later collapsed on the sideline, experienced seizure activity, and was taken to the hospital, where he underwent emergency surgery for brain bleeding.

The NRL’s investigation identified a breakdown in communication among the medical and health professionals, including a failure to properly share or disclose vital information about Katoa’s condition. Under league rules, all on-field medical staff must annually complete concussion protocols and maintain minimum medical qualifications.

In addition, the medical assistant who initially assessed Katoa has been issued a formal warning, and all four officials must complete further training in head-injury and concussion protocols.

The Melbourne Storm have confirmed that Katoa will miss the entire NRL 2026 season as he continues to recover from brain surgery. Storm CEO Justin Rodski emphasised there is no timeframe set for a return to training or playing; for now, Katoa must focus on his recovery before any decision about a future comeback can be considered.

The action by the NRL sends a strong signal that player safety, especially around head injuries, will be taken seriously. It also highlights the critical importance of strict compliance with medical protocols and clear communication among medical staff, especially when a player has suffered head trauma.