Rain has forced the first day of the second and final Test between New Zealand and Bangladesh at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium to be called off.

The wicket was drenched by continuous drizzle from Friday, with a storm and rain forecast for Saturday.

A heavily overcast sky has also made it too dark to begin, officials said.

Match referee Javagal Srinath announced the decision to call off play after a pitch inspection at lunchtime.

Play is scheduled to begin 30 minutes earlier on Sunday.

New Zealand beat Bangladesh by three wickets on Tuesday in Chittagong to lead the series 1-0.

-NZPA