Kolkata, Oct 8 (IANS): The start of the third and final Twenty20 International (T20I) between India and South Africa has been delayed due to heavy rain and soggy outfield at the Eden Gardens here on Thursday.

There were heavy showers during the late afternoon because of which the entire ground was covered by sheets. At around six in the evening, the covers were finally taken off, but there were still patches of water on the outfield.

The authorities decided that the ground conditions were not conducive to start the match at the scheduled time of 7 p.m.

Three super-soppers were out on the ground mopping up the outfield and the first inspection which was held at 7.30 saw both umpires having a long discussion.

Prior to that, former India skipper Sourav Ganguly was seen chatting with the two captains while at the same time sweepers were on the ground with brooms and other equipments to clear the water on the outfield.

The next inspection has been scheduled for 8.30 p.m.