Doris Aims to Apply World Cup Lessons in Upcoming Match

Ahead of the Autumn Nations Series match between Ireland and New Zealand, Ireland captain Caelan Doris expressed his readiness to compete against the ‘world class’ All Blacks. The game is scheduled for Friday, 8 November, with kick-off at 20:10 GMT at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin. Live commentary will be broadcast on BBC Radio 5 Sports Extra, BBC Radio Ulster, and BBC Sounds, while live text updates will be accessible via the BBC Sport website and app. Ireland’s captain, Caelan Doris, stated his intention to implement the insights gained from last year’s World Cup loss to New Zealand during their upcoming encounter on Friday. This match in Dublin marks the first time the two teams have faced each other since the All Blacks secured a dramatic quarter-final victory in Paris last year. Although Doris mentioned he has not dwelled “too much” on the World Cup fixture, he articulated his ambition to achieve a better showing, having acknowledged that he did not perform at his peak at Stade de France. Doris reflected on his previous performance, stating, “I’ve obviously reflected on that game and I know it wasn’t near one of my best performances or where I can get to.” He added, “It’s all part of the journey and the evolution of a player and a person and I’m sure that game, some of the lessons from it, will lead to further development and growth for me. I’m looking forward to putting that into action.” Last month, Doris assumed the role of Ireland captain, succeeding Peter O’Mahony. He had previously captained the team in a Six Nations match against Italy and during a Test win over South Africa in Durban. The 26-year-old, who also became Leinster captain earlier this year, acknowledged that while the leadership position is not yet “second nature,” he is progressively feeling more “comfortable” in it. The back row player commented, “I’m starting to enjoy it more.” He further explained, “Between the coaches we have and the experience in the squad and the leadership group, the load is very much spread across everyone so I don’t feel too much extra pressure or responsibility on me.” Doris concluded, “Of course there is some given the role but I’m becoming more settled in it.” When questioned about his leadership approach, he responded, “Probably actions first. I think I have a good relationship with the group and all the individuals.” Doris also expressed his eagerness for the physical confrontation with the All Blacks, whose back row includes Wallace Sititi, Sam Cane, and World Rugby player of the year Ardie Savea. He specifically looks forward to the battle with New Zealand number eight Ardie Savea. Doris, who plays alongside Tadhg Beirne and Josh van der Flier in the Irish back row, remarked, “Three quality players and [Samipeni] Finau off the bench, too.” He further noted, “Sititi is a young player and has been class in the Rugby Championship and against England last week.” Doris concluded by saying, “You love testing yourself against other world class opponents and against very good back rows so looking forward to going up against them, the three of us against the three of them will be a good challenge.”