Australia, South Africa split points following washout of 7th ODI

Australia and South Africa took two points each after the seventh match of the limited-overs tri-nation series on Sunday was washed out after just nine minutes of play.

Australia and South Africa took two points each after the seventh match of the limited-overs tri-nation series in Bridgetown on Sunday was washed out after just nine minutes of play.

A groundsman used an air blower to dry the pitch but that too wasn’t enough to ensure the game was played. (AFP)

South Africa, sent into bat under overcast skies in what was star batsman AB de Villiers’ 200th ODI, was 8-0 off one over when heavy rain arrived and forced a lengthy delay.

Even when rain abated, a damp spot running the length of the pitch caused concern for the umpires, who eventually announced the match was abandoned at 6:30pm.

South Africa remains atop the standings with 12 points, one clear of Australia. The washout was good news for West Indies, who have eight points from four matches, and now needs only to win one of its remaining two matches to qualify for the final.