Caelan Doris: Ireland have their 'edge' back ahead of Springboks rematch

Bit by bit, Caelan Doris is growing into the role of Irish captain.

Succession-planning hasn't always been the greatest strength of Irish rugby, but when it comes to the current captaincy, there appears to be a roadmap for this World Cup cycle.

Peter O’Mahony’s leadership has been a bridge for this Irish side going through a transition in 2024, particularly having lost such an imposing character when Johnny Sexton retired last year.

The last six months have shown that when O’Mahony does move on from this Irish side, Doris will almost certainly been the next permanent Irish captain.

Having stepped into the role with Leinster in January, Doris continued to do so in the second half of the season when both Garry Ringrose and James Ryan were unavailable, while he’s also been the next man up in Ireland’s leadership group when O’Mahony has either been injured, or replaced in the second half of games.

Having skippered Ireland from the start in the Six Nations meeting with Italy at the Aviva Stadium in February, Doris will lead his country out for the second time on Saturday afternoon at King’s Park in Durban, as they look to draw their series with the Springboks (4pm).

And while the opposition are a level above Italy, Doris (above) believes he’s already more comfortable with the captaincy.

"I'm delighted to be in the role," he said, after Ireland got through their captain’s run at Northwood High School in Durban.

"I think the first time, the Italy week, there was more nerves and pressure and more self-doubt."

When Doris captained Ireland against Italy, he did so with O’Mahony ruled out due to injury, but this time around it’s been a selection call that’s seen the veteran drop to the bench.

And the stand-in skipper says O’Mahony’s guidance