Rugby Shock: Star’s Hospital Rush for Brain Surgery
Rugby fans are reeling after a gripping, yet heart-wrenching incident during the Pacific Championships in Auckland. Eli Katoa, Tonga’s fierce forward, faced a health scare like no other, leaving him hospital-bound for urgent brain surgery.
The chaos kicked off during the warm-up when Katoa collided hard with his teammate, Lehi Hopoate, suffering a brutal head knock. Yet, astonishingly, he was cleared to play. Just minutes into the match against New Zealand, Katoa endured another hit to the head. Despite passing a quick head injury check, he was permitted back on the field. However, the final blow came with a third heavy tackle that forced him out for good.
Visibly dazed and wounded, with blood seeping from a cut on his face, Katoa mouthed “I’m f****d” to staff before succumbing to “seizure activity” on the bench. Rushed away on a stretcher, he was taken to hospital for brain surgery.
In a grateful update from his hospital bed, Katoa assured fans he’s drawing strength from his faith and well-wishers’ support. Melbourne Storm, his club, confirmed his stable condition with heartfelt backing from his partner and mother.
Outrage has erupted amongst fans and pundits alike. People are questioning how he was allowed to continue playing after these serious injuries. The footage continues to circulate widely, with many calling this oversight “indefensible.”
On the other side, Tonga’s head coach Kristian Woolf strongly defended the medical team’s decisions, insisting every protocol was followed, but the results were unfortunate. The incident has prompted calls for a deeper investigation and better safety protocols.
What do you think? Should there be stronger safeguarding in place to protect players from such risks? Share your thoughts below!