‘World-class’ Ireland forward makes a decision on his long-term future
Caelan Doris during the World Cup 2023, rugby union match between South Africa (Springboks) and Ireland on September 23, 2023 at Stade de France in Saint-Denis near Paris.
Ireland back-row Caelan Doris has committed his long-term future to Leinster, signing a three-year contract extension.
The 25-year-old has become a key cog in the Leinster and Ireland pack in recent seasons and was rewarded with the Rugby Players Ireland Players’ Player of the Year award earlier this year.
Doris commits long-term
The number eight has made 36 appearances for Ireland, playing a crucial role in Ireland’s charge to a Six Nations Grand Slam this year, featuring in all five matches.
He also played in all of Ireland’s 2023 Rugby World Cup games as the side finished top of Pool B at the tournament before falling to New Zealand in the quarter-final.
His form this year also earned him a place in the World Rugby Men’s Dream Team of the Year.
“I am delighted to sign this contract extension and look forward to continuing my journey at home in Ireland with Leinster over the coming seasons,” Doris said in an IRFU statement confirming his extension until 2027.
“It has been a dream come true to play in ambitious environments at club and international levels, and I believe that the best is yet to come, both for me personally and as a collective. I am hugely excited about what the future has to offer and would like to thank all those who have helped me in my career to date.”
More good news for Irish Rugby
The Mayo-born forward has won four PRO14 titles, with Leinster lifting the title in the 2018, 2019, 2020 and 2021 seasons. He has racked up 72 caps for the Irish province since his debut in 2018.
Widely regarded as one of the best back-rowers in the game, Doris’ extension is more good news for Irish Rugby following the news that head coach Andy Farrell has penned a new deal with the union.
“The IRFU is committed to attracting and retaining the highest playing and coaching talent, and we are delighted that Caelan has signed this new deal,” IRFU High Performance Director David Nucifora said.
“Since making his debut for Ireland three years ago, Caelan has proved himself as a world-class performer, and today’s announcement is testament to his growing reputation and high standing both here in Ireland and internationally.
“Caelan is a leader who has displayed a consistently high level of performance, and I have no doubt that he will aim to reach higher levels in the coming years.”
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