An inch of rain fell overnight on an already sodden County Ground forcing the early abandonment of the game between Essex and Northamptonshire.

With no prospects of an improvement in the weather, umpires Nigel Cowley and Steve Gale took the decision to abandon the County Championship Division Two match as the Chelmsford ground was left under pools of water on the outfield.

Essex take three points and Northamptonshire five points having reduced their hosts to 54 for six during the only 27 overs that were possible.

That was back on day two, but not a ball was bowled on any of the other three days.