Rain frustrates Irish in Scotland

Ireland were in a strong position before the rain fell in Aberdeen

The rain came to Scotland's rescue on the final day of their ICC Intercontinental Cup clash with Ireland at Mannofield, Aberdeen.

Defending champions Ireland ended day three needing just five Scotland wickets to seal victory, with the home side 225 runs behind.

However, Ireland take just three points, while Scotland get nine after securing a six-run first innings lead.

Scotland now top the table with 29 points from two games.

Ireland, who will stay in Aberdeen for two one-day internationals on Saturday and Sunday, sit third on 12 points.

The visitors were in control after Scotland suffered a day-three batting collapse and were reduced to 72 for five at the close of play.

An impressive 118 from opener Will Porterfield, who contributed 77 in the first innings, guided Ireland to a second innings total of 303 - a lead of 297 runs.

Majid Haq was the pick of the Scottish bowlers, picking up nine wickets over two innings, while Qasim Sheikh made an unbeaten 100 in his first knock.

The Scots established the early initiative in the match, reducing the visitors to 202 all out but Regan West's fantastic seven-wicket haul meant the home side could only establish a first-innings lead of six runs.

However, that slender advantage proved crucial as heavy rain washed out any chance of play on Thursday.