NO play was possible before lunch in Worcestershire's match against the New Zealanders at New Road today.

Last night's torrential rain sparked a massive mopping-up operation which began at 7.20am.

The first two hours were taken up in just removing the volume of water from the covers.

An umpire's inspection was not planned until after lunch.

Today's frustrating delayed start is the latest in a series of grim soggy days at New Road.

Three full days of the Frizzell County Championship Division One match with Sussex were completely washed out as was this week's totesport League Division Two clash against Nottinghamshire Outlaws.

The four-day game against the Kiwis, which includes Sunday play, was due to have started at 10.45am today.

But at that time the New Road ground staff were still busy mopping up in warm sunshine.