This match was scheduled for 55 overs each side. Terrible early-season weather had made Ormeau a morass. The match started 90 minutes late and was reduced to 45 overs per side, but after 18 overs, and during the lunch interval, further rain made a restart impossible.

For Ireland H Milling (exams) was not available. Ireland had a panel of 13 and from this left out DA Lewis and TJT Patterson. JD Garth, a 21-year-old all-rounder got his first cap as did E Jones, 35 years old and born in Cheshire, an opening bowler.

India last played in Ireland in 1982 and were again managed by the genial Raj Singh. Kapil Dev (Captain), Gavaskar and M Amarnath did not travel over to Ireland. Patil, Shastri and Yadav had played in 1982. Shastri celebrated his 24th birthday on the eve of the match, having had his 20th birthday in Ireland in 1982. K More and R Lamba had been professionals with NCU clubs in 1985. Messrs Cawoods Oil (pounds Sterling 5000) sponsored the two matches.

Ernie Jones bowling

Srikkanth and Lamba opened for India. The second ball of the match saw Srikkanth hoist a huge skier behind the bowler, Corlett. Prior caught it. Jones took a wicket with the first ball of his third over when he bowled Pandit. 17-2-8. Garth came on for his first International bowl for the 11th over. Azharuddin, scorer of a century in each of his first three tests against England in 1984-85, faced. The second ball was hit for four. The third bowled Azharuddin for 9. 30-3. Lamba (21) and Patil (15) were together at lunch after 18 overs with the score at 57-3, when the match came to an end.