Second ODI rained off in Dublin

Thursday's second One-Day International between Ireland and Sri Lanka was called off due to a wet outfield after several hours of persistent rain in Dublin.

Thursday's second One-Day International between Ireland and Sri Lanka was called off due to a wet outfield after several hours of persistent rain in Dublin.

Umpires Richard Kettleborough and Richard Smith, along with match referee Chris Broad, deemed conditions unfit for play shortly before 2.30pm. A combination of overnight rain and incessant drizzle left the players and spectators frustrated for much of the morning before the final decision was made.

The covers were on for much of the morning, save for a forty-five minute period during which the rain briefly relented and the clean-up operation temporarily began. However, as the scheduled start time of 10.45am approached, the rain returned as the players emerged onto the outfield.

Lunch was taken at 1pm and, as the forecast indicated, the weather improved as the afternoon wore on. However, a further inspection by the officials rendered the square and outfield too wet with the damage already done despite blue skies overhead.

Sri Lanka claim the RSA Insurance Series on the back of Tuesday's 79-run victory and will now make the short trip across the water for the second leg of their England/Ireland tour.

For Ireland, they play Sri Lanka A in three one-day games later in the summer before facing Scotland in an ODI series in September.

<b>Ryan Bailey in Dublin</b>

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