Only 30 overs of Australia's second innings -- and just 10 after lunch -- had been possible before the rain came in the middle of the afternoon yesterday.

When play was called off, Australia were 73 for three, with Ricky Ponting 32 not out and skipper Michael Clarke on three. Seamer Kemar Roach, who took five wickets in the first innings, had taken all three wickets to fall.