Leicester Tigers progress into semi-final after play-off against Castres Olympique cancelled

Leicester Tigers have qualified for the semi-finals of the European Challenge Cup after their Sunday's play-off game against Castres was cancelled.

The decision follows after the French side had reported three players and a staff positive for Covid-19 forcing them to withdraw from the encounter at Welford Road.

"EPCR has decided to cancel the Challenge Cup quarter-final match between Leicester Tigers and Castres Olympique which was scheduled to be played tomorrow at Welford Road," read a statement from EPCR.

"The decision followed a meeting of a Medical Committee, comprising medical leads from the unions, league bodies and both clubs, and subsequent independent medical advice.

"The Committee, chaired by Rod McKenzie (Scotland), met by video conference last night following confirmation by Castres that three members of their playing group, as well as one staff member, had tested positive for COVID-19 in advance of the club's planned departure to England.

"It was decided on medical advice that the quarter-final could not go ahead safely in the circumstances and as a consequence, Castres have to forfeit the match and Leicester will qualify for the Challenge Cup semi-finals."

Leicester Tigers will now face French side Toulon in the semi-final next week.