T20 World Cup: Ireland's match with Afghanistan called off due to rain

Ireland are up to second in their T20 World Cup Group 1 - without bowling or batting a ball.

Their game with Afghanistan in Australia was called off today (Friday) because of persistent rain which means the points will be shared.

Ireland had hoped to capitalise on their shock win over England.

Victory over Afghanistan would have given them a huge boost going into their next game with favourites Australia.

The scheduled start time of 3pm local (5am UK) was pushed back because of showers, which ultimately refused to relent and an abandonment was declared 95 minutes later.

There was still an hour and 10 minutes before the scheduled cut-off but the recognition it would take at least an hour for the ground to dry meant hands were shaken early.

Each side takes a point, with Ireland moving on to three points in the group.

It is particularly hard luck for Afghanistan as this is their second abandonment in a row, with an identical fate befalling Wednesday's match against New Zealand at the same venue.