The first half of the triangular competition ended in anti-climax as bad weather prevented a single ball being bowled between England the reigning women's world champions.

Both sides were looking to improve their chances of a place in the final with each having recorded a convincing win over India on the opening two days of action at the Grainville ground.

But persistent rain prevented the players from making it out to the middle and the umpires called the match off in mid-afternoon.

"It's a very disappointing way to finish here. They had the pitch covered but the run-ups and the area around the pitch were still damp," said England manager Gill McConway.

"If we come here again we'd insist they had adequate covers available, but normally they don't need them.

"The ground has a reputation for being quick drying, but they've had so much rain this summer, the water table was very high."

The three teams now head north to Durham where India have a chance of some much-needed practice against a Development XI.

The tournament proper will resume at the Racecourse Ground on Tuesday when England and New Zealand try again.

England are hopeful that new ball bowler Lucy Pearson will be available after returning home for treatment to a foot injury.