The French rugby league (LNR) has called an emergency meeting for tomorrow following the announcement of a strike by Stade Francais players to protest a proposed merger with Paris rivals Racing 92.

“The National Rugby League is proposing an emergency meeting between the two sports companies, the associations and representatives of the players and coaches on Friday, March 17,” the LNR said in a statement yesterday.

“The LNR is calling for dialogue and will monitor very closely this unprecedented matter in the history of French rugby.”

The clubs announced the surprise merger on Monday and a day later, players’ union chief Robins Tchale-Watchou said Stade Francais players were starting an “open-ended strike”, ruling out Saturday’s trip to Castres for a Top 14 match.

According to LNR regulations, Stade Francais will be docked two points while Castres be awarded five, with the threat of relegation looming over the Parisian side if they forfeited three games.

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