Irish recruit Jamie O’Reilly will become the 10th Richmond first-gamer of the 2010 season after getting the nod to make his debut against Carlton on Saturday.

The 22-year-old, who was plucked from Gaelic football and selected by the Tigers at the end of 2009, was recently promoted from the Rookie List.

It has been a meteoric rise to the top level for the athletic, running half-back, who has been able to reach peak fitness, while learning the intricacies of the game.

He began the 2010 season in the Coburg reserves, before being elevated to the seniors in Round 3.

He quickly adapted to the increased speed of the game, and over 14 appearances at VFL senior level, proved to the Richmond coaching staff he was ready for his chance at the highest level.

O’Reilly said he was thrilled with his decision to venture down under and give Aussie Rules a shot.

“I’m really loving it,” he said.

“It’s everything that I expected it would be, living the professional lifestyle.  At home I had a part-time job, was studying full-time and had football five or six nights a week for all different teams.

“So it’s good to be able to concentrate all of my energy on one thing.

The full Richmond team for Saturday’s match will be announced at 5pm this afternoon.