Frustrating day at Lord's

Only 8.5 overs were bowled on day three of the first Test between England and New Zealand at Lord's

Persistent rain prevented any play in the afternoon and evening sessions on day three of the first npower Test between England and New Zealand at Lord's.

Only 8.5 overs were bowled during the morning, but England opener Alastair Cook was able to reach his half-century with a back-foot cover drive for four off the bowling of Kyle Mills.

The players were forced off soon after - with England on 89 without loss replying to New Zealand's first-innings total of 277 - and with the downpour getting heavier during the evening, the umpires confirmed an abandonment at 5.30pm.