After an impressive first start in Australian rugby, Karmichael Hunt has been given an even bigger assignment with the code hopper being named to play in the No.10 jumper for the Reds in their trial against the Crusaders on Friday.

Hunt looked sharp in his 63-minute debut against the Rebels in Cairns and will be given a chance to step into the chief playmaking role as the Reds try to cover for the absence of the injured Quade Cooper.

Kick-start: Karmichael Hunt kicks for touch during the Reds Super Rugby trial against the Melbourne Rebels. Credit:Getty Images

Rookie Duncan Paia'aua was given first shot, but even with the slippery, humid conditions taken into consideration, struggled with the pace and intensity against the Rebels.

The former Brisbane Broncos under 20s star came up with a number of errors and even the most generous observer would surmise that, despite his talents, round 10 looked a more realistic prospect than round one.