Ireland v Afghanistan abandoned without a ball bowled after rain

Oct. 28: The Men's T20 World Cup match between Ireland and Afghanistan was abandoned without a ball being bowled because of rain at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.

Afghanistan's previous game against New Zealand was also abandoned on Wednesday because of rain at the same venue.

Both sides are awarded a point, moving Ireland, who stunned England in their last match, up to second in Group 1, while Afghanistan remains bottom.

England's crucial match with Australia later on Friday is also in doubt.

Play is scheduled to start at 09:00 BST at the MCG but more rain is forecast.

Ireland next faces holders and hosts Australia in Brisbane at 08:00 GMT on Monday.

"It's very disappointing, we'd played good cricket and were looking forward to this but can't do much about the weather," said Ireland captain Andrew Balbirnie.

"It'll be like a different country up in Brisbane. We want to push the champions."

Balbirnie said that he doubts England-Australia will go ahead, adding: "It's so wet out there."

Afghanistan's next tie is also in Brisbane, against Sri Lanka at 04:00 GMT on Tuesday.

"Most of the players are disappointed, not having played on such a fantastic ground [the MCG]," said Afghanistan captain Mohammad Nabi.

"But the weather is not in our control, so we have to accept it. We look forward to the future games and hope to win."