HARARE: Persistent rain played spoilsport as the first of three one-day internationals between Zimbabwe and Ireland in Harare got washed out on Wednesday after the home team got to 121 for 6 in 25.3 overs.
Amid loud roar of thunder, rain arrived at 11:14 local time and then continued on relentlessly, having the final say.
Ireland, fresh from a 2-1 T20 series victory in the southern Africa country, won the toss and put the hosts in to bat.
Zimbabwe star Sikandar Raza, deputising as captain for injured Craig Ervine, had a rare off-day, making 15 before his attempted slash took an edge and he was caught by wicketkeeper Lorcan Tucker.
Raza was recalled after missing the last two T20 internationals having been banned for aggressive behaviour toward two Irish opponents in the first match.
Openers Joylord Gumbie and Tinashe Kamunhukamwe and unbeaten Brandon Mavuta all made 28 for Zimbabwe while Graham Hume (2-7) and Craig Young (2-33) were the most successful Irish bowlers.
The other two ODIs are scheduled for Harare Sports Club on Friday and Sunday.
(With inputs from AFP)