Ireland and Leinster captain Caelan Doris determined to 'lead through actions'

Caelan Doris doesn't believe that double-jobbing as Leinster and Ireland captain will affect his game.

The 26-year-old number 8 was appointed as skipper of his province last month taking over the role from co-captains James Ryan and Garry Ringrose, while Andy Farrell named him as Ireland captain for the upcoming Autumn Nations Series.

Being named captain comes with additional media duties and more overall responsibilities but the Mayo man insists that he intends to lead primarily by example, and has been getting advice from his predecessors, including Johnny Sexton and Peter O'Mahony.

"When I’ve gone to the likes of Sexto or Pete, or even Garry and James, everyone’s main point is, 'the most important thing is the 80 minutes, your performance, lead through actions’.

"I’ve got a pretty good process in how I prepare, and I can’t let up on that while looking after everything else or the other responsibilities, the added responsibilities.

"My focus is still trying to prepare myself, while also taking other things into account, but not letting up on that in order to do the others. I’m trying to do that.

"I don’t think [it’s too much in a short space of time].

"I’m definitely excited by it and I’m looking forward to it. I love being in both environments and we’re looked after very well.

"I’ve only played three games so far this season so when I’m not playing there are other guys who are leading more so that week. So, it’s not as relentless as it might seem.

"Of course, you’re the official captain but there are so many other guys who are capable of leading and are leading as well. So, there’s not too much weight on my shoulders."

Doris (above) captained Ireland during last season’s Six Nations when O’Mahony was ruled out of the Italy