Ireland will attempt to defend a total of 237 for nine against Afghanistan on Sunday, after their ICC World Cricket League clash in Rotterdam was forced into a second day by poor weather.

Ireland skipper Trent Johnston won the toss and opted to bat first, with Andrew Poynter's 78 the top score in a decent total.

Paul Stirling was first man out for six, with James Hall following his opening partner back to the pavilion for 15 in the 10th over.

When Alex Cusack fell to leave the score on 27 for three, Afghanistan were well on top but Kevin O'Brien's measured 44 and Poynter's innings - which included six fours and one maximum in 109 deliveries - shored things up.

Hamid Hassan took the key wicket of Poynter on his way to figures of three for 53.

Andrew White kept the scoreboard ticking with 31 before Johnston arrived at the crease late in the day to blast his way to 42 not out in 28 balls, helping himself to two boundaries and a pair of sixes.

Rain prevented the start of the reply and when there was no let up, it was decided to reconvene tomorrow on what had been designated a reserve day.