Second South Africa v England ODI rained off as world champions are frustrated

Just 11.2 overs were possible in Durban before the rain returned, leaving The Proteas 1-0 up in the three-match series

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World champions England were thwarted in attempts to level the one-day international series against South Africa after rain ruined the second match in Durban.

Following a delayed start, just 11.2 overs of The Proteas' innings was possible before the rain returned for a third time to end any chance of the match being completed.

The result leaves Quinton de Kock's men 1-0 up in the series ahead of the third ODI in Johannesburg on Sunday (February 9), meaning the tourists can no longer prevail in the series.

Inclement early morning conditions meant fans had to wait one hour and 45 minutes for play to begin, with the match initially reduced to 45 overs a side.

Just 39 balls were possible during the first bout of play, with South Africa navigating their way to 38 for 1, with Joe Root taking the only wicket of Quinton de Kock for 11.

Reeza Hendricks (24 not out) showed signs of encouragement but after hitting the third of his sweetly-timed boundaries the rain resumed and led to an early end to proceedings.

Play resumed nearly three hours later for an optimistic 26-over game, but only 29 balls were possible with Chris Jordan trapping Temba Bevuma (21), to leave the hosts 71 for 2.

More rain followed before the umpires called a halt to proceedings just after 5pm GMT.

The wait goes on for England's first competitive 50-over win since their World Cup success last July after they were beaten by seven wickets by South Africa on their return to ODI action in Cape Town.

After the conclusion of the series this weekend, the two sides face each other in three T20s on February 12, 14, 16 at East London, Durban and Centurion.