Wet outfields delay start in Durban

Heavy rain over the past month meant the water table was far higher than usual in the city. Puddles around the field, particular around the square and on the boundaries, were not drying sufficiently.

The same venue hosted the Proteas against India in the second one-day international on Sunday when there was also a delay for the same reasons and more rain since then meant conditions had worsened.

An inspection will be done at 11.00am by umpires Ian Howell and Gerrie Pienaar, while lunch would also be taken at the same time.

The match was brought forward by a day to ensure it is concluded by Saturday as a mark of respect for former president Nelson Mandela, whose funeral will take place on Sunday.

(File photo:Gallo Images)

- Sapa