Ireland have suffered a major injury blow ahead of November, with captain Caelan Doris now set to miss the rest of 2026.
The 27-year-old has suffered a fresh setback after surgery on his foot and knee.
According to The Irish Times, an infection in his knee has slowed his recovery.
Doris had hoped to return in time for Ireland's autumn Tests.
However, he is now aiming to play again in January 2027.
It means Ireland could be without their captain for key games against Argentina, Fiji and South Africa.
Caelan Doris suffers fresh injury blow
Doris hurt his foot during Leinster's URC final win over the Bulls in June.
He later had surgery on both his foot and knee.
The injury ruled him out of Ireland's summer tour. There had been hope he would return in November.
However, the latest setback has ended those hopes.
Leinster boss Leo Cullen had already raised doubts over his return.
Speaking about his fitness, Cullen said:
"I can't answer that question [if Doris will be fit to play for Ireland]. I genuinely don't know."
The good news is that Doris is said to be making progress.
However, Ireland must now plan for life without their captain.
Ireland captain Caelan Doris faces an extended spell on the sidelines following a fresh injury setback.
Ireland handed Jamison Gibson-Park boost
There is some good news for Ireland.
Scrum-half Jamison Gibson-Park is back in training with Leinster.
The 34-year-old missed the club's first two URC games due to a groin injury.
He did not travel to South Africa for games against the Lions and Sharks.
However, RTÉ Sport reports that he has now returned to training.
His return is a welcome boost for Ireland boss Andy Farrell.
Munster star Jack Crowley is also facing a race to be fit after a health issue.
Ireland's November fixtures
- November 6: Ireland v Argentina
- November 14: Ireland v Fiji
- November 21: Ireland v South Africa
- November 27–29: Nations Championship Finals Weekend
Five facts about Caelan Doris
1. Had just one classmate at school
Doris grew up in Lacken, a small village in County Mayo.
His first school had just 35 pupils. He had only one other child in his class.
2. Both parents work in therapy
His parents, Chris and Rachel, both work as therapists.
Doris later studied the human mind at University College Dublin.
3. Had a big dream aged 10
As a child, Doris wrote that he wanted to become a rugby or football star.
He also dreamed of owning homes in Mayo, London and New York.
4. Uses therapy to help his game
Doris has spoken about his mental health.
He has used therapy and daily meditation to cope with the stress of playing at the top level.
5. Missed the Lions tour
Doris was picked for the 2025 British & Irish Lions tour of Australia.
However, a shoulder injury forced him to pull out before the trip began.
