No play was possible on the opening day at Canterbury because of steady rain.

Several inspections of the St Lawrence ground were made, but by mid-afternoon the outfield had developed a series of puddles and was clearly unfit.

Persistent drizzle had turned to heavy showers and finally at 1500 BST it was decided to abandon play for the day.

This match is of huge importance in the congested Division One. Surrey are battling relegation, yet to win a game, and Kent still retain title ambitions.