Rookie is scrum half choice for Ireland

Only 27 days into his international career, scrum half Conor Murray has forced his way into the Ireland team against the USA on Sunday.

The 22-year-old Munster player made his Ireland debut on 13 August when he came on as a replacement in a 29-12 defeat by France.

He was on the bench again two weeks later when the Irish lost to England, but head coach Declan Kidney said on Friday that Murray is ready to make an impact in his side's opening Pool C match of Rugby World Cup 2011.

“We did say we would judge it on a number of things," Kidney said. "How the guys finished last season, how they went in pre-season.

“Obviously he finished last season strong, he has done well in pre-season and he deserves a chance to bring his own skill set to the game. I’m looking forward to watching him play.”

Outstanding performances

Ireland captain and 113-Test veteran Brian O’Driscoll supported his coach’s decision.

“He’s a confident young man," O'Driscoll said. "He has shown great form in training. I think he has translated that well on to the field when he has gotten his opportunities. I have no doubt he is up to the challenge."

Murray’s selection came as a surprise because he displaces established scrum half Eion Reddan (31 caps) and Reddan's New Zealand-born understudy Isaac Boss (14).

O’Driscoll has faith Murray will rise to the occasion and reproduce his outstanding performances at the provincial level.

“People are picked to play international rugby on the back of their performances for their province. Just because you put on a different jersey doesn’t mean you change your game.”

Instant understanding

O’Driscoll is also confident Murray can form an instant understanding with in-form fly half Jonathan Sexton, although the two have never played together for Ireland.

“With every minute they’ll have together on the pitch, they’ll improve. I wouldn’t envisage any difficulties,” he said.

“I’ll expect them to do what half backs do best and that’s boss things, especially bossing the forwards around the place.”

There were no other surprises in the Irish selection. Geordan Murphy was named at full back with Tommy Bowe and Keith Earles completing the back-three combination.

Gordon D’Arcy joins O’Driscoll to form a formidably experienced centre pairing while back row prospect Sean O’Brien misses out on the squad of 22.

Australian-born Tom Court replaces the injured Cian Healy at loosehead prop.