Carlton has created AFL history, becoming the first team to use the new injury sub rule at half-time of tonight’s clash with Richmond at the MCG.

The Blues have subbed out forward Jack Silvagni, who injured his shoulder in the second quarter of the game against the Tigers.

Former Melbourne tall Oscar McDonald will make his debut for his new club after being activated into the game as the 23rd man.

McDonald had the perfect start as well, kicking a goal early in the third quarter.

The injury replacement rule was only introduced on Wednesday to some dismay from those in the industry and fans, while some welcomed the decision.

Richmond used their injury sub, with Jack Ross coming in for Nick Vlastuin, who injured his knee, late in the third quarter.

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Earlier today, former Brisbane captain Jonathon Brown and St Kilda skipper Nick Riewoldt expressed their disappointment at the decision to introduce the rule.

“This is unbelievable. This breaks from the AFL’s MO in not rushing things through,” Riewoldt told Fox Footy.

“This is a big change for them and a big break from the norm.

“This is ripe to be exploited. This is going to change the complexion of finals as well. Think about some of the huge story lines particularly in preliminary and grand final week, it’s all about a player will he won’t he. Now you can just roll the dice.”

Brown said “you can drive a semi-trailer through the holes” in the rule.

“The coaches can exploit it, no doubt about it,” he said.

“I think the AFL’s covering themselves a little bit. I think they’ve extended the game back out to 20 minutes, reduced the interchange. They’re worried about the length of the games and the speed of the game.

“I think they’ve got spooked and they’re worried about soft tissue injuries early in the season.”