Ireland vs. England, Only ODI: Highlights, Scorecard, Report

England were denied the chance to gain a welcome confidence boost, as rain forced the abandonment of their one-day international with Ireland in Dublin.

"

Umbrellas are up around the ground! #IrevEng pic.twitter.com/sES5nIbfK2

— Cricket Ireland (@Irelandcricket) May 8, 2015"

James Taylor’s first taste of captaincy of his country started superbly, as he won the toss and put Ireland into bat under overcast skies.

It always looked like it would be a good toss to win, and England bowled with real quality.

They also showed quality in the field. In particular, wicketkeeper Jonny Bairstow showed great skill to throw down the stumps and run out Paul Stirling.

Mark Wood showed promise on his international debut, with his speed touching 90 mph, and he was rewarded with the wicket of William Porterfield.

Alex Hales put down Niall O'Brien early on, but he did not take full advantage, as he chased a wide ball from Tim Bresnan and was pouched by James Vince.

David Willey was another bowler to strike on debut, as Andy Balbirnie picked out Jason Roy in the gully.

"

#IREvENG Jason Roy takes a blinder to give David Willey his maiden ODI wicket. http://t.co/XABV2vFkVX pic.twitter.com/ZkEFKS3Sg3

— Sky Sports Cricket (@SkyCricket) May 8, 2015"

The rain came down shortly afterward, with Ireland on 56 for four, and no further play was possible.

Batsman	How Out	Runs		Balls
WTS Porterfield*	b Wood	7		27
PR Stirling	run out (†Bairstow)	2		5
EC Joyce	not out	23		42
NJ O'Brien	c Vince b Bresnan	10		8
A Balbirnie	c Roy b Willey	5		19
GC Wilson†	not out	3		8
Extras	(lb 2, w 3, nb 1)	6
Total	(4 wickets; 18 overs)	56
Bowler	Overs	Maidens	Runs	Wickets
MA Wood	5	0	25	1
TT Bresnan	6	2	11	1
DJ Willey	4	1	17	1
ST Finn	3	2	1	0

It is a huge disappointment for Ireland, who are looking to make strides on the world stage, while England will now turn their attention to New Zealand.