Andy Farrell backs 'devastated' Caelan Doris to bounce back

May 9, 2025

Andy Farrell has backed devastated Caelan Doris to come back “bigger and stronger” after missing out on a place in the British and Irish Lions tour.

The Leinster man was in the mix to be named captain but suffered a shoulder injury last weekend in a game against Northampton Saints.

Leinster fans have been awaiting official news on the severity of his injury, however, Farrell’s omission indicates a lengthy spell on the sidelines. Doris, 27, will undergo surgery this week.

With Maro Itoje being confirmed as captain, Farrell revealed he has spoken to the Irish back row regarding his injury.

He said: “I have [spoken to him]. You can imagine he’s devastated. He would have definitely been in the mix, he’s such an experienced player and leader.

“It’s devastating for people like that. It’s always a constant in every single tour. Sport can be cruel sometimes. Caelen will be back bigger and stronger.”

Farrell named a heavy Irish contingent with 15 players representing his 38-man squad. One player who won’t feature is Doris’ club team-mate Sam Prendergast.

Despite featuring in November’s internationals, Finn Russell, Fin Smith and Marcus Smith were all given the nod to head to Australia.

Ireland legend Brian O’Driscoll believes the tour has come too early for the 22-year-old but says his time will come. He told BBC Sport NI: “From Sam’s point of view, his time will come.

“He’s still only a very young guy. He’s still learning his trade and what it takes to kind of boss the team.

“I think it’s just one tour too soon for him. In four years’ time, he’ll be an infinitely different player with way more experience, way more know-how, and way, way more air miles to get a sense as to how to navigate a team of unknowns.

“I think it looks like a great squad. I don’t think there’s too many outliers.

“In truth, I don’t think there’s any real shocks but it looks like a squad that’s very capable of winning a series in Australia.”