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James O’Connor has been named at five-eighth in his debut for the Queensland Reds in the Super Rugby clash against the Western Force at Suncorp Stadium on Saturday.
Star recruit O’Connor takes over at No.10 from code-hopper Karmichael Hunt who shifts to fullback after the Reds’ thumping loss to the Brumbies last weekend.
Reds coach Richard Graham was pleased both players would be making an appearance, after the side was hit hard by injuries in the pre-season.
“I have been talking for a while now about James and Adam making their debuts for the Reds. With some certainty I can finally say after a good week’s preparation that both of the boys will start this weekend,” Graham said.
“Adam has only been with the group now two weeks but has fitted in superbly. As a leader and a footballer he has been able to contribute positively to what we are doing.
“James will wear the Number 10 jersey. He has spent the last two weeks training fully with the team and looks settled. He is motivated to help the team around the field and allow the side to find their attacking framework. Karmichael and he will split the role on some first phase and phase attack.
“We have handed out a few debuts in the early rounds. Whilst James and Adam have played Test Rugby, both are enthused by the privilege that comes with wearing the Reds jersey.
“At the other extreme, Tom Murday is making his Super Rugby debut turning 26 later this year. He has put in a lot of hard yards and travelled across the Tasman (playing ITM) to earn this opportunity. The playing group are excited for him and he will enjoy the occasion Saturday night.
“The Force played well last weekend. They were strong defensively and controlled field position well. We know that physicality will play a big part in this match.”
“It is great to be back in Brisbane and playing in front of our own supporters at Suncorp Stadium. Last weekend was a poor performance, the group recognise that and they are determined to deliver a strong performance on Saturday.
“Our focus this week has been mainly around getting our set piece and defence right. The game usually flows on the back of controlling the collision zone and they start with those two areas.”
Reds team to play Western Force
1 James Slipper (C)
2 Saia Fainga’a
3 Sam Talakai
4 Marco Kotze
5 James Horwill
6 Adam Thomson (Reds debut)
7 Liam Gill
8 Jake Schatz
9 Will Genia
10 James O’Connor (Reds debut)
11 Lachie Turner
12 Samu Kerevi
13 Chris Feauai-Sautia
14 Chris Kuridrani
15 Karmichael Hunt (VC)
16 James Hanson
17 Ben Daley
18 Sef Faagase
19 Tom Murday (Potential Super Rugby debut)
20 Curtis Browning
21 Nick Frisby
22 Sam Johnson
23 Campbell Magnay
With AAP
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