TALENTED rugby league player Archie Bruce died from asphyxiation, just hours after making his professional debut, a post-mortem examination has found.

The 20-year-old Batley Bulldogs debutant, from Liversedge, had made his professional debut away at Toulouse Olympique XIII just hours before he was found dead in his hotel room in the French city.

French authorities carried out a post-mortem examination on Monday, which found he died from asphyxiation, which is when the body is deprived of oxygen, and further tests are being carried out.

READ MORE: Tributes paid to Liversedge star Archie Bruce

A product of Dewsbury Moor Maroons, talented hooker Archie had enjoyed a stellar season with his amateur club before making his Bulldogs debut.

The Rugby Football League Benevolent Fund has started a JustGiving campaign to raise funds for Archie's family, which has already passed £6,000 in donations.

Dewsbury Moor and Batley have also joined forces to create a half-and-half shirt in his honour, with profits going towards the JustGiving campaign.

To donate, visit justgiving.com/fundraising/archie-bruce-1