Nathan Doak: Ireland cap ‘next step’ for Ulster scrum-half

Ulster scrum-half Nathan Doak says the province have “a lot on the line” in Saturday’s Challenge Cup match against Stade Francais at Affidea Stadium (13:00 GMT).

Governing body European Professional Club Rugby [EPCR] awarded Richie Murphy’s side a 28-0 win and maximum points on Sunday when their Challenge Cup match against the Cheetahs was not rescheduled after being postponed due to sub-zero temperatures and snow.

Now, despite already qualifying for the last 16, Ulster have a chance to clinch top spot in Pool Three and a home draw with a win against Stade Francais, who sit third in the Top 14 and top of the pool.

“We want to be intense, fast and physical,” Doak told BBC Sport NI.

“We are back at home, we are confident and are playing a big French side to get top of our group, so we have a lot on the line.

“We are really looking forward to it.”

Doak has recently signed a contract extension that will keep him at Ulster until the summer of 2028.

The 24-year-old has played a key role for the province this year and is aiming to carry his impressive form onto the international stage.

Despite being called up to the Ireland squad for the summer tour, he failed to win his first international cap.

However, he has been involved in two Ireland ‘A’ matches and was also part of the Emerging Ireland squad which toured South Africa in 2022.

“From a personal point of view, it is the next step I want to take,” he continued.

“I wanted to take the next step here and get into the starting jersey and perform well for Ulster. I would love to get an opportunity to do that on the biggest stage.

“That is the feedback I have gotten, they have said that Ulster have to be winning and you have to be at the heart of it.”