Caelan Doris faces uncertainty for Lions tour due to shoulder injury

Leinster and Ireland rugby captain Caelan Doris is facing significant uncertainty over his participation in the upcoming British & Irish Lions tour to Australia after suffering a shoulder injury during Leinster's Champions Cup semi-final loss to Northampton Saints. Doris, who was widely regarded as a leading candidate for the Lions captaincy alongside England's Maro Itoje, will undergo shoulder surgery this week, with the full extent of his injury and recovery timeline unknown until after the procedure. The injury has forced Lions head coach Andy Farrell to reconsider his options ahead of Thursday's squad announcement, as Doris's absence would be a major blow given his leadership and specialist No 8 role. If Doris is ruled out, Itoje is expected to become the favorite for captaincy, potentially becoming the first English Lions captain since 2001. Leinster staff and teammates highlighted Doris's resilience and leadership, underscoring the impact his absence could have on both club and country during the crucial summer tour. Farrell and Doris now face an anxious wait to determine whether he can recover in time for the tour or if alternative back-row options will need to be selected.