Doris aims to put World Cup lessons into action

Autumn Nations Series: Ireland v New Zealand

Venue: Aviva Stadium, Dublin Date: Friday, 8 November Kick-off: 20:10 GMT

Coverage: Listen to live commentary on BBC Radio 5 Sports Extra, BBC Radio Ulster and BBC Sounds; follow live text updates on the BBC Sport website and app.

Ireland captain Caelan Doris says he hopes to put the lessons from last year's World Cup defeat by New Zealand into action when they meet again on Friday.

The sides meet in Dublin for the first time since the All Blacks' thrilling quarter-final win in Paris last year.

While Doris says he has not thought about the World Cup game "too much", he outlined his desire to deliver an improved performance after failing to produce his best form at Stade de France.

"I've obviously reflected on that game and I know it wasn't near one of my best performances or where I can get to," said Doris.

"It's all part of the journey and the evolution of a player and a person and I'm sure that game, some of the lessons from it, will lead to further development and growth for me. I'm looking forward to putting that into action."

Doris was appointed Ireland captain last month, replacing Peter O'Mahony, having previously led the team against Italy in the Six Nations and in the Test victory over South Africa in Durban.

The 26-year-old, who was also named Leinster captain earlier this year, admits that while it is not quite "second nature" for him, he is starting to feel more "comfortable" in the leadership role.

"I'm starting to enjoy it more," added the back row.

"Between the coaches we have and the experience in the squad and the leadership group, the load is very much spread across everyone so I don't feel too much extra pressure or responsibility on me.

"Of course there is some given the role but I'm becoming more settled in it."

When asked to describe his style of leadership, he said: "Probably actions first. I think I have a good relationship with the group and all the individuals."

Doris also said he is relishing the physical battle with the All Blacks, who have named Wallace Sititi, Sam Cane and World Rugby player of the year Ardie Savea in their back row.

"Three quality players and [Samipeni] Finau off the bench, too," said Doris, who has Tadhg Beirne and Josh van der Flier alongside him in the Irish back row.

"Sititi is a young player and has been class in the Rugby Championship and against England last week.

"You love testing yourself against other world class opponents and against very good back rows so looking forward to going up against them, the three of us against the three of them will be a good challenge."