Caelan Doris sidelined until new year due to injury setback

Leinster and Ireland captain Caelan Doris is expected to remain sidelined until at least the new year following complications in his recovery. After sustaining a foot injury during the United Rugby Championship final in June, Doris underwent surgery, but a subsequent knee infection has delayed his return.

Doris had previously missed Ireland’s July fixtures against Australia, Japan, and New Zealand. While there was hope he would return for the November internationals against Argentina, Fiji, and South Africa, he is now targeting an early January comeback. This timeline would likely make him available for Leinster’s final Champions Cup pool matches against Pau and Leicester, as well as Ireland’s 2027 Six Nations campaign.

The setback comes at a difficult time for Leinster, who are also managing injuries to other players, including Max Deegan and Harry Byrne, who are currently in return-to-play processes following concussions.