The 24-year-old from Taree is one of four newcomers in the side for the opening game of the season.

Larkin opens up for Sydney University and has been told that's the position he'll fill against the Victorians.

"I'm looking forward to it - I can't wait,'' he said earlier this week from Sydney.

Larkin's been in strong form with Sydney Uni this season after returning from his second stint in Ireland over winter. He believes playing in Ireland - where he played two matches for the national side - has improved his game.

Larkin has a score of 157 not out to his credit this year. But even though the Blues have a number of players unavailable because of commitments with various the Australian teams or injury, Larkin wasn't over-confident about his chances of getting the call, even though he is now a regular member of the State Second XI.

"There's a lot of players scoring runs in Sydney grade,'' he said.

Larkin has never played at the MCG.

"I've been there for a couple of days at the Boxing Day test, but that's all,'' he said.

He's also never faced any of the Victorian attack that will be led by Australian representatives John Hastings and Clint McKay, so he accepts this will be a challenge.

"I've seen a bit of them on video this week,'' he explained.

Larkin hopes NSW bat first on Friday.

"That's the way I'd prefer it,'' he said.

His mother and father are currently overseas but are expected back in Australia tomorrow.

"I think there's a good chance that mum will fly down to Melbourne,'' he said.

"But my brother will be there and a couple of mates are coming along so there'll be a few familiar faces there.''

Larkin knows this is a great opportunity. He fully appreciates it came about because of the number of players NSW have out, but he's determined to make the best of his chance.

"If I can score some runs hopefully the selectors know they can call on me again if the opportunity arises,'' he said.

Larkin still hasn't given up hope of playing for Ireland in the World Cup where he qualifies through his grandfather. While the Irish selectors seem to have settled on a squad Larkin reasons there's plenty that can happen between now and when the cup gets underway in January.

"If I get the chance I won't say no,'' he said.

He is now an official member of one of the most exclusive sporting groups in Greater Taree - cricketers who have played Sheffield Shield for NSW.

Johnny Martin and Aaron Bird are the others.

Like Bird, Larkin is a product of Taree West's juniors.