Irish rookie Adam Carroll impressed during practice for this weekend's A1GP World Cup of Motorsport race, setting the best time in the afternoon session at the Zhuhai International Circuit.

The 25-year-old, who found his way onto the podium on his A1 debut in the sprint race in Czech Republic in October, set the fifth best time in the morning before clocking a time of one minute 23.279 seconds in the second session.

His time was nearly half a second better than second-placed Robert Wickens of Canada, who recorded a best lap of 1:23.771.

Michael Ammermuller of Germany, who set the fastest time in the morning, was third fastest in the afternoon with Jeroen Bleekemolen of Holland in fourth position.

Great Britain's Oliver Jarvis was 13th in a time of 1:24.563.

Ireland have never finished higher than third in an A1GP race and, while pleased with his performance, Carroll admitted there was still work to be done if he was to improve on that record.

"Obviously it was only practice but it was a good way to start the weekend," said Carroll.

"We got a pretty good lap on new rubber but I'm sure everyone's going to catch up tomorrow.

"I'm hoping we can carry the pace all the way through the weekend and get up the front and stay there."

Extensive work was done on the seat in the Irish car to make Carroll comfortable for the race.

"I've had some major issues with my seat and we've had to make seven so far," he said.

"I find it quite hard to get comfortable in the car but now I can really concentrate on driving the car rather than being in pain so it should make a lot of difference."

Qualifying for Sunday's races will take place on Saturday afternoon.

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