While Ireland's Six Nations victory over Italy yesterday was a routine one, it was still a very special afternoon for one member of the squad. Caelan Doris captained the team for the first time, leading the side out in the absence of Peter O'Mahony.
It was certainly a landmark moment in the Leinster man's career. The 25-year old has steadily become one of the best performers in world rugby over the last couple of years and looks set to have a massive future at both club and international level.
It was thought that Doris was in the running for the captaincy on a full-time basis after the retirement of Johnny Sexton, and while Andy Farrell would ultimately opt for the more experienced O'Mahony, his selection for yesterday's fixture suggests that he will be next in line for the position somewhere down the road.
Judging by the reaction of some of his teammate, it seems as though he would be a fine choice.
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Rugby: James Lowe reveals 'emotional' Caelan Doris captain's speech
James Lowe was named man-of-the-match for his performance against Italy yesterday, but he was quick to big up Caelan Doris after the game.
Speaking to media after the match, he joked that while didn't want to give his teammate even more praise, he went on to describe how seamlessly he had fit into the captaincy role.
I don’t really want to!
I’m sure everyone else is talking about him at the moment. Look, he’s a great dude on and off the pitch. He is a very good learner, a great listener.
His speech before the game was outstanding, to the point, emotional, direct, it was like he’s done it before and fair play, he took it all in his stride and performed outstanding.
He talked about how nervous he was, young fella but a great head on his shoulders. I think he’s going to be around for a long while.
He was at 7 today but took it in his stride and was outstanding.
Caelan Doris is likely to be Peter O'Mahony's long-term successor as the next Irish rugby captain, while he could also be in the running for the position with the Lions in 2025 under Andy Farrell.
The early signs are there that he would be an excellent fit.
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