Rain halts play at The Oval

Paul Collingwood's team had progressed to 129 for four in the 17th over when a heavy shower drove the players from the field.

Opener Ravi Bopara hit 55 and Kevin Pietersen struck a fluent 31 as England attempted to complete back-to-back wins and secure a semi-final berth.

Having knocked holders India out of the tournament in a Lord's thriller on Sunday evening, the hosts knew another positive result would send them into the final four.