Rain mars fascinating encounter after Ireland made solid start against South Africa

In their first home game since September 2019, the rain was ultimately the winner

Ireland's Mark Adair plays a shot. Pictures: INPHO/Bryan Keane

Ireland laid a strong platform in the first game of the DafaNews ODI Series against South Africa before rain brought about an early end to the first men’s international match played in Ireland since September 2019.

After a delayed toss, William Porterfield and Paul Stirling made a steady start opening the batting before the former was joined by Andrew Balbirnie to put on a record second-wicket partnership. However, shortly after the No.3 joined Porterfield in passing fifty, the rain became too heavy for play to continue, with sustained wet weather only allowing a short resumption before the match was abandoned.