From the 3.5E SRD (my emphasis):
Simple question, would placing a fireball spell in the ring cause a fireball cast near the wearer to be counterspelled?
Or is the function of the ring restricted to spells that target the wearer directly? For example, Hold Person or Magic Missile.
Ring of Counterspells: This ring might seem to be a ring of spell storing upon first examination. However, while it allows a single spell of 1st through 6th level to be cast into it, that spell cannot be cast out of the ring again. Instead, should that spell ever be cast upon the wearer, the spell is immediately countered, as a counterspell action, requiring no action (or even knowledge) on the wearer's part. Once so used, the spell cast within the ring is gone. A new spell (or the same one as before) may be placed in it again.
Simple question, would placing a fireball spell in the ring cause a fireball cast near the wearer to be counterspelled?
Or is the function of the ring restricted to spells that target the wearer directly? For example, Hold Person or Magic Missile.