Will Smith's half-century proved the highlight of a rain-interrupted day one between Durham and Lancashire, during which only 40 overs were possible.

Having lost the toss, Durham lost both openers to run outs, Michael di Venuto run out from extra cover and Mark Stoneman following after a fine 47.

And only four runs later, Shivnarine Chanderpaul departed for a duck, lbw when half forward to Tom Smith.

But Smith (59no) steadied the ship to take Durham to 142-3 before the rain.

It was the batsman's fifth 50 since regaining his place in late May and he brought it up off 112 balls with a fantastic on-drive off Glen Chapple.

Dale Benkenstein also remained unbeaten on 21, the captain playing a valuable support role as Smith laced 10 boundaries at the other end.

Smith was the pick of the bowlers for Lancashire, the 22-year-old medium pacer taking 1-14 from his eight overs.