Rain prevented Fawad Ahmed from making his first impact for Australia A on Saturday against Ireland, with the highly-rated legspinner forced to wait to bat and more importantly show selectors what he can do with the ball in UK conditions.

Only a couple of hours of play were possible on Saturday in Belfast due to the elements, with Australia A reaching 9-312 when play was stopped on day two.

Ahmed is yet to face a ball, but Australian selectors are obviously interested in seeing the Pakistan-born asylum seeker roll the arm over, and it’s more than likely with the time already lost to rain, that the Australians will declare their innings when play resumes.

Steve Smith kicked on with his brilliant hundred to post a 133 which is sure to push his barrow for an Ashes call-up.

Fast bowler James Pattinson showed he’s yet another of Australia’s capable lower-order hitters, smashing 66.

The Australians either in or on the cusp of the Ashes squad are desperate for match time leading into the five-Test series, but inclement weather is making that difficult.

Ahmed appears set to be called into the Test squad and be in the frame for a stunning debut during the Ashes, provided his citizenship is passed in time.