The extraordinary talent and versatility of Emirates Western Force star James O’Connor has seen one of the surprise moves as the Wallabies shape up for their opening Tri-Nations match against South Africa in Brisbane. 

O’Connor has been preferred at fullback throughout his blossoming test career however he’ll start on the wing against the Springboks and be opposed to none other than 2007 IRB Player of the Year Bryan Habana.

While it looms as a tough assignment O’Connor will tackle the task with the fearless approach that has elevated him to the top of the game.

"I'll hopefully be hitting some holes off Quadey (Quade Cooper) and Gits (Matt Giteau) and just getting involved wherever I can," said O'Connor.

"I'm looking forward to the challenge.

"I've had a few one-on-ones with Habana in the past and it has been good experiences so far.”

O’Connor believes it will be an open attacking match against the Springboks who will be determined to rebound following consecutive losses in New Zealand.

However the Wallabies will be hoping to continue the pain for the Springboks and have a significant home ground advantage with wins against the South Africans in their last seven meetings in Brisbane.

"We've been practising a lot on our counter-attack this week so I think it's going to be pretty quick and exciting," said O’Connor.