Melbourne Storm forward Tui Kamikamica has been hospitalised in Australia and is undergoing treatment for a suspected stroke, Australian media reported on Monday, the latest development in a worrying turn for the Fijian international.
The club said Kamikamica experienced a "medical episode" this morning after featuring in the early stages of the Storm’s NRL match against the North Queensland Cowboys on Saturday. In a short statement the Storm asked for privacy for Kamikamica and his family while medical staff provide care, adding that further updates would be issued "when appropriate."
Kamikamica, 28, is one of the Storm’s most experienced forwards. Since making his NRL debut in 2017 he has racked up 142 appearances for the club. He also serves as captain of the Vodafone Fiji Bati, Fiji’s national rugby league side, and is a prominent rugby league figure from Somosomo, on the Fijian island of Taveuni.
The Storm did not provide clinical details or a timeline for a prognosis, but Australian outlets reporting the hospitalisation said medical teams were treating him for a suspected stroke. The club’s appeal for privacy suggests it is managing both the medical response and communications with Kamikamica’s family and teammates.
Kamikamica’s presence on the field and leadership off it have made him a regular feature for both Melbourne and Fiji in recent seasons. His absence, even temporarily, will be felt by the Storm’s pack and by Fiji Rugby League, where he has been a central figure and captain. Teammates, opposing clubs and Fijian sporting officials are likely to await a formal medical update before commenting further.
This is the latest in a developing situation; no additional information about Kamikamica’s condition, expected recovery or potential impact on his playing calendar has been released. The Storm reiterated that it would issue further information when it is appropriate to do so and reiterated its request that the player’s privacy be respected at this time.
Leave a comment