The second men's Twenty20I between New Zealand and Australia has been abandoned because of rain, leaving the visitors with a 1-0 lead in the three-match Chappell-Hadlee Trophy series.

Australia won the first match by six wickets on Wednesday and will retain the Chappell-Hadlee Trophy whatever the outcome of the third match, which will be played Saturday, also at Bay Oval.

On Friday, rain delayed the toss by 30 minutes at Tauranga's Bay Oval, then returned before the players could take the field.

The match finally started at 6:30pm AEST with nine overs per side, but only 13 balls were bowled when the inclement weather returned.

New Zealand had won the toss and Australia was 1-16 when play ended.

Further rain is forecast on Saturday. Loading Twitter content

Bowling all-rounder Sean

See Full Page