New Zealand and South Africa were left frustrated as their match was abandoned ©Getty Images

New Zealand and South Africa were left frustrated as their International Cricket Council (ICC) Women's World Cup clash in Derby was abandoned without a ball being bowled because of persistent rain.

The match at the County Ground had been due to get underway at 10.30am local time, but was eventually called off at around 2.15pm.

A wet outfield and continued rainfall meant conditions were unplayable and forced the two sides to share the points.

New Zealand are likely to be the most disappointed by the outcome as they are among the favourites to lift the trophy.

The cancellation means New Zealand's Suzie Bates will have to wait until Sunday's (July 2) encounter with arch-rivals Australia to achieve her 100th cap.

Bates is set to become the first Olympian to appear in 100 One-Day Internationals.

She has already set one personal landmark in this 2017 tournament as the first individual century maker as her crisp unbeaten 106 against Sri Lanka set up a comfortable victory in New Zealand's opener.

The 29-year-old will reach the landmark if she plays in the match in Bristol.

The tournament is set to resume tomorrow, providing the weather does not have a detrimental impact on proceedings once again.

India, who beat hosts England in their first game, are due to take on the West Indies at the County Ground in Taunton.