Ireland’s Test debut was washed out in Malahide without a ball being bowled in the historic encounter against Pakistan.

Overnight rain left a wet outfield to start the day in Malahide as light rain pushed the scheduled start beyond the 11am start.

Forecasts predicted that the rain would clear in the afternoon, however, that proved inaccurate as further downpours made it impossible to start the first day’s play at the north Co Dublin venue.

And while rain is a constant threat to cricket in Ireland, the groundskeepers in Malahide had to also contend with high winds, which also led to the postponement of the first day.

Had the covers been removed, they would not have been able to replace them due to health and safety concerns with the regular gusts ripping across the grounds at Malahide Castle.

The authorities were even in close communication with Wellington Cricket Ground in New Zealand – the windiest ground in world cricket, by all accounts – however, the returning rain ensured that the covers remained for another day, with play now set to start at 11:00 on Saturday morning.

Speaking to the media following the decision, Cricket Ireland chief executive Warren Deutrom said that while it may have been possible to play for a couple of hours later in the day, he felt that it would be more "appropriate" to begin such an occasion on Saturday morning.

Cricket Ireland confirmed that all ticket holders would receive a full refund, stating: "All of today's ticket-holders will receive a 100% refund. If purchased through Ticketmaster, you will be refunded into your bank account within 28 days. If purchased on the door, please return to the gate to collect your refund."