Former Ireland flanker Alan Quinlan joined Thursday's OTB AM from Brisbane ahead of the first test between Ireland and Australia.
In a surprise move, Joe Schmidt has named Joey Carbery to start at out-half as Ireland look to extend their winning run to 13 matches.
The youngster has been in the news recently after his high-profile move from Leinster to Munster but Quinlan believes it's an exciting selection as the men in Green look for a first win over their hosts on Australian soil since 1979.
"I was a bit surprised at the press conference earlier when the team was announced...it was rumoured earlier today that possibly Carbery would start - I didn't think it would happen until the 2nd and 3rd test.
"I thought Joe Schmidt would pick the strongest possible team in the first game but obviously he's made a number of changes and the big, stand out one is Joey Carbery.
"It's a great opportunity - he's had some criticism, Joe Schmidt, for being a little bit conservative but six guys are getting an opportunity here who didn't start against England.
"Robbie Henshaw was one of those - he would normally be a starter so Carbery is the big story and it's a great opportunity for him.
"After the initial surprise - I get a feeling of excitement. It's a big test environment for him. They're very powerful here in Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane. The last time the Aussies played here they beat New Zealand so there's going to be a fair bit of pressure and Michael Cheika will certainly try and target Joey Carbery," he added.
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