Melbourne Storm prop Tui Kamikamica is unlikely to return to the NRL this season after suffering a health setback during training, putting his comeback from a stroke on hold. However, the Fiji captain remains hopeful of representing his country at this year's Rugby League World Cup.
Health Setback Delays Return
Kamikamica underwent brain and heart surgery in March after a stroke left him temporarily unable to speak or move. The 32-year-old initially told AAP he aimed to return within weeks, but Melbourne officials cautioned it would be months before he could play again. Now, that timeline has been further delayed after Kamikamica experienced a regression during training last week.
A Storm official confirmed the medical setback to AAP, describing the burly forward's chances of playing again this season as "touch-and-go."
Impact on Melbourne Storm
Melbourne have sorely missed Kamikamica's imposing 110kg, 195cm presence in their forward pack during a challenging season. The team has also been hit by star winger Xavier Coates rupturing his Achilles and coach Craig Bellamy being diagnosed with a neurodegenerative disorder.
Off-contract at season's end, this setback could spell the end of Kamikamica's Melbourne career, which began in 2017 and has included 142 games.
World Cup Hopes
Despite the NRL uncertainty, Kamikamica is a strong chance to lead Fiji at this year's World Cup in Australia, New Zealand and Papua New Guinea, running from October 15 for a month. He has been focusing his recovery on being fit for the tournament.
Support from Teammate Eli Katoa
Kamikamica has been spending his recovery working alongside his best mate Eli Katoa, who also underwent brain surgery after a brain bleed from multiple concussions while playing for Tonga. Katoa was ruled out for the season by the Storm but aims to play next year if medically cleared.
"Eli was the first one to come to the hospital," Kamikamica told AAP. "He's been right here since day one in rehab together, we're pretty much riding the same road. They're long days, and when you have a great mate, you can talk to them, and especially he has his experience as well. He pretty much knows how we feel, so for him to be there, giving me company, that's really good for me, with my health as well."
