Ireland’s Caelan Doris Faces Doubt for All Blacks Clash in Chicago

Irish rugby captain Caelan Doris is uncertain for the upcoming match against the All Blacks in Chicago as he continues to recover from a shoulder injury. Doris has recently resumed training with his club, Leinster, following an injury that prevented him from leading the Lions during their Australian tour in May. Reports from the Irish Times indicate that the Chicago test, scheduled for just over two weeks from now, may be too soon for the No 8 to return.

In addition to Doris’s situation, Ireland’s fullback Hugo Keenan is also nursing a hip injury. The team will face a significant challenge as they prepare to play without veteran players Cian Healy, Peter O’Mahony, and Conor Murray for the first time since 2009. All three players have announced their retirements from international rugby since Ireland’s last encounter with the All Blacks, a 23-13 defeat in November 2022 that ended Ireland’s impressive 19-match winning streak at home.

Potential Leadership Changes for Ireland

If Doris is unable to participate, the Irish Times reports that either Dan Sheehan, Iain Henderson, James Ryan, or Tadhg Beirne will take on the captaincy against the All Blacks. This change in leadership could significantly impact Ireland’s strategy as they prepare for one of the most anticipated matches of the year.

The Irish coaching staff will be closely monitoring Doris’s recovery as the team approaches their match against New Zealand. The All Blacks, known for their formidable playing style and rich rugby history, present a tough challenge, particularly for a squad undergoing significant adjustments.

As Ireland aims to reclaim their competitive edge, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if Doris can overcome his injury in time for the test. His potential absence, coupled with the retirement of seasoned players, adds an extra layer of intrigue to this high-stakes match.