Boyd Rankin impressed during the World Cup for Ireland

The paceman, who joined Warwickshire on a three-year deal at the end of last season, suffered a stress fracture in his foot just before Christmas.

Neither Ireland or his county want to risk him by playing him prematurely.

"The injury has healed but I'm concerned that if I come back too soon it might not be fully recovered and I could break down again," said Rankin.

Ireland coach Phil Simmons has been heartened by the news that Dave Langford-Smith has made himself available and replaces Rankin in the squad.

He had initially ruled himself out of contention for the first half of the year due to work commitments, but has had a change of heart and is now available.

"Dave Langford-Smith's work is going better than anticipated, and he thankfully is able to get the necessary time off.

"Hopefully with Allan Donald working on remodelling Boyd's action, we'll get a fitter and more confident fast bowler."

Ireland are aiming to win the InterContinental Cup for the third successive time.