Rene Ranger returns to his regular position at centre as Francis Saili is relegated to the bench, while Albert Nikoro will make his first start for the Blues on the wing.
George Moala was not considered for selection due to breaking internal team protocols.
Counties Manukau lock Ronald Raaymakers has been named on the bench in place of Anthony Boric who is suffering from a neck injury.
Kirwan labelled the Reds the best team in the Super Rugby competition and said it was due to their multi-faceted game plan.
"They're very good right across the park," he said.
"I always think championship sides have the ability to play four game plans. They've got a good kicking game, an expansive game, they can play a tight game and they can play with real intelligence mixing it up.
"They've also got two world class players in Will Genia and Quade Cooper that when they're on their game are very hard to control. So that mix really makes them lethal. For us it's about shutting them down right across the park and we won't be able to relax for one second."
Blues team to play Reds at Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane on Friday, kick-off 9.40pm NZT is: Charles Piutau, Frank Halai, Rene Ranger, Jackson Willison, Albert Nikoro, Chris Noakes, Piri Weepu, Peter Saili, Luke Braid, Steven Luatua, Ali Williams, Culum Retallick, Angus Ta'avao, James Parsons, Tom McCartney. Reserves: Keven Mealamu, Ofa Tu'ungafasi, Ronald Raaymakers, Brendon O'Connor, Jamison Gibson-Park, Baden Kerr, Francis Saili.
