The National Rugby League (LNR) announced on Friday that seven players and the coach of the Castres team, a French rugby league team, have been diagnosed with the swine flu (H1N1) virus which led to the cancellation of a championship match. The dates of the highly anticipated matches between Castres and Albi had been postponed until further notice.

This is the first professional sports event in France that has been delayed because of the H1N1 virus. To date, there are twelve reported cases of swine flu within the French rugby league.

Earlier this week, three players from Stade Francais were diagnosed with the swine flu and were advised to stay at home and rest for at least five to seven days.

The Castres players were also advised to rest and should not be in contact with other players for at least seven days starting August 26. This is to ensure that the spread of the virus will be stopped and that the upcoming championship matches will take place.