Derby in doubt after 3 Castleford Tigers players test positive for coronavirus ahead of trip to Leeds Rhinos

A decision will be made in the morning on whether the game can go ahead, after three more players, who are currently in doubt due to injury, have undergone fitness tests.

Tigers coach Daryl Powell revealed three of his squad have tested positive for Covid-19 and another six have been stood down under track and trace protocols.

Powell said Castleford have been in touch with Rhinos and the RFL to inform them of the situation.

Leeds had their own scare on Thursday after "a couple" of players' test results came back inconclusive, but they were later confirmed as negative.

Powell said he is anxious to fulfil the fixture, but asked whether the game could be called off if the three players in doubt are not passed fit, he said: "That's a decision in the morning for us to make.

"Clearly you can't go into a game with 14 fit players."

Calling the game off would also be a blow to Rhinos who plan to use it as their final full-scale hit out before the Coral Challenge Cup final against Salford Red Devils nine days later.

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