Steve Smith has put his hand up to be recalled to the Test squad for the Ashes after smashing a timely century for Australia A in their tour match against Ireland in Belfast.

In conditions where the Australians found themselves 4-65 after 17 overs, Smith barely set a foot wrong in mounting his case for inclusion ahead of the first Test at Trent Bridge starting on July 10.

Smith was 104 not out at stumps on day one, with Australia A 6-248 after Ireland won the toss and fielded.

The NSW batsman came to the crease at 2-22 after Ashes squad member Usman Khawaja was bowled by Max Sorensen (4-44) for a duck.

Smith smashed fourteen boundaries and a six and shared in well constructed partnerships with Moises Henriques (47) and James Pattinson (42no).

National selector John Inverarity has said he’ll consider a shadow player for Michael Clarke should doubt remain over the Australia skipper’s back condition.

Smith’s innings was timely, as he competes with the likes of George Bailey and Adam Voges for a call-up.

“Yeah it’s nice to get a few but the wickets played a little bit better the last 30-odd overs,” Smith said.

“It was nipping around a little bit early so it was quite hard work but I got through that period and it got a bit easier.”

Pakistan-born asylum seeker Fawad Ahmed has been included in the Australia A side, strengthening the belief he’s on track for an Ashes call-up.

The legspinner has fitted in well since arriving in camp last Sunday.

“He’s bowling really well in the nets,” said Smith.

“He’s come over the past few days and started really well as well, so looking forward to seeing him have a bowl in the game.

“He seems like a nice fella, I don’t know him that well. He’s obviously a very skillful legspinner.”