Rain plays spoilsport as Dunedin Test ends in draw

The first Test of the three-match series between New Zealand and South Africa ended in a draw after rain washed out the final day's play on Sunday here at the University Oval.

Not even a single ball was bowled on Day Five and the umpires decided to abandon the match after scheduled lunch break.

At Stumps on Day Four, the Proteas were 224-6, with skipper Faf du Plessis and Vernon Philander batting at the crease on 56* and 1* respectively when bad light ended play 20 minutes early. The day had produced only 186 runs and five wickets.

Dean Elgar, who scored 140 and 89 in the two innings, was declared Man of the Match.

Meanwhile, right-handed batsman Neil Broom has been called up to replace Ross Taylor for the second Test in Wellington, beginning March 16. Taylor, who is suffering a calf strain, will be reassessed ahead of the final match of the series in Hamilton.

The veteran New Zealand batsman suffered a low grade tear of the right calf while batting on Day Two of the opening Test and retired hurt on 8. He returned to complete his innings at the fall of the ninth wicket although he was restricted in his movements.