Heavy and persistent rainfall at The Nevill Ground, Royal Tunbridge Wells got the better of Kent and Essex as this opening match for both sides ended in a draw without a ball being bowled.

The result, however, makes good reading for Kent staff and followers as they now lead the Mike Denness Challenge Shield 5-4.

Kent’s grip can only be released from winning the shield if the two sides are drawn together in the remaining stages of the limited overs cricket remaining this season and Essex win.

The forecasted rainfall arrived on time and before the players could even take to the field to warm up leaving pools of water across the outfield.

With the rain unrelenting and the forecast for the rest of the day much the same it left the umpires in no doubt the prospect of any play was unlikely and duly abandoned the game at 1210.

Kent: 1pt

Essex: 1pt