Ireland’s historic start to Test cricket washed out

Ireland’s first day as a Test cricket nation proved to be a complete wash-out as rain in Malahide put paid to their maiden outing against Pakistan.

The Irish were set to become the 11th nation to play the longest format of the sport.

But umpires Richard Illingworth and Nigel Llong carried out inspections of the outfield throughout Friday, before finally giving up at 3pm.

Continuous drizzle throughout the morning had turned to a downpour by afternoon, scuppering any chance of action getting underway.

Cricket Ireland chief executive Warren Deutrom said: “There was a huge sense of excitement and anticipation about today, and a massive sense of pride.

“Of course it’s disappointing, but what I don’t want to do is go around with a massive long face, projecting misery because it isn’t that.

“We’re still hugely proud.”

Grounds staff will now be working hard to try to ensure play can go ahead on Saturday, with an 11am start scheduled.

Cricket Ireland has confirmed Friday’s ticket holders will all receive a 100% refund.

The Irish Cricketers’ Association took to Twitter to declare: “Sure we’ve waited 141 years to make our Men’s Test Match debut, what’s another day...!”