Rain delays start of third's proceedings

Chittagong, May 20 (UNI) Heavy rain delayed the start of play on the third day of the first Test between India and Bangladesh at Chittagong Divisional Stadium here as several puddles on the outfield ruled out all chances of an early start.

The first Test have not underway in the proper way with 83 overs being lost in the first two days. Umpires Darrel Harper and Billy Doctrove had decided to start the game 30 minutes early today to make up some of the lost time.

However, overnight rain and continuous downpour in the morning forced another delay in the proceedings.

Meanwhile, the umpires have announced that they will have an inspection around 11.30 local time. But chances of early start look remote as the outfield has become spongy with water oozing out of every underfoot. And with the rains persisting, chances of the match commencing any soon looked bleak.

While only 77 overs were played on the first day, 20 overs could be bowled yesterday after deciding on 23 overs as the game began at 1630 hours local time.

India are well placed in the mach at 384 for six with two centuries from Sachin Tendulkar and Sourav Ganguly.

UNI