Nathan Doak Faces “Test Match” Challenge Against Toulouse

Nathan Doak, Ulster half-back sees Sunday’s clash with Investec Champions Cup holders Toulouse as a “Test match” challenge especially with the threat of superstar Antoine Dupont. Ulster will face the Top 14 leaders at Ernest Stade-Wallon in their opening match of this year’s competition, knowing they’ll play against a team packed with quality players. “This is why you play – to face Toulouse and Dupont,” said Doak, who relishes the chance to play against the world-class French international.

However, he remains mindful that Toulouse has quality beyond just Dupont and emphasizes the importance of focusing on Ulster’s own game. Doak recalled Dupont’s brilliant performance in Toulouse’s 48-24 victory over Ulster last season when the Frenchman scored two tries. Despite Dupont’s reputation as the best player in the world, Doak stresses that the whole Toulouse squad deserves attention. “We can’t just focus on him,” he added. “They have quality throughout, so it’s about getting our things right and seeing where that takes us.”

Ulster enters the game after a narrow loss to Leinster and Nathan Doak believes they can improve tactically, particularly in attack and defense. “We need to tidy up in those areas and leave it all out there,” he said. Doak, who joined the Ireland squad during the summer tour of South Africa is eager to secure his first senior cap. He expressed confidence in his ability, thanks to his coaches’ faith in him. “I just have to keep putting in good performances to give myself a shot at getting back into the squad,” he said.