The uncle of Eli Katoa has revealed the Tonga star is in a steady situation however requested for extra prayers because the second-rower battles to make a full restoration.
Katoa underwent emergency surgical procedure to ease strain on his mind following a collection of head knocks whereas enjoying for Tonga in opposition to New Zealand.
Katoa was rushed to hospital after reportedly having seizures on the sidelines.
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Tonga star Eli Katoa was taken to hospital after struggling seizures on the bench 9
He copped a heavy head knock throughout his crew’s warm-up but was cleared to play, however then went on to endure two extra blows to the top, leaving him needing oxygen on the sideline, earlier than being rushed to hospital.
“In the mean time, he is doing significantly better,” Katoa’s uncle Reverend Setelo advised Tongan Radio station PMN.
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“He has been moved from the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) to a common ward within the hospital
“He is awake, recovering effectively, and being taken care of by medical workers. The household may be very grateful for all of the assist, love, and prayers from everybody.”
Within the meantime, New Zealand coach Stacey Jones backed requires better consciousness across the risks of pre-match warm-ups.
“There needs to be scrutiny round it,” Jones mentioned.
“I do not know what went on, however there has obtained to be some actual excellent care across the gamers.
“We’ve it at coaching.
“However once more, I do not know sufficient to touch upon what went on.”
Jones’ feedback come after fellow Kiwi nice Shaun Johnson mentioned earlier this week he was “sick” over the incident and the fallout ought to see “heads roll”.
Katoa’s former teammate on the Warriors, Jazz Tevaga, mentioned the state of affairs ought to “by no means have occurred”.
“It is very heartbreaking to see for my brother Eli,” Tevaga advised AAP.
“I despatched him a message and pray he’s OK.
“It should not have occurred, nevertheless it did occur. All we will do is pray and hope he comes by the opposite facet.”
It is understood the Storm have been in each day contact with Katoa and his household, however there isn’t any set timeline on when Katoa will likely be discharged from hospital.
