Hashim Amla’s push for a century in a third consecutive test against Australia was halted by rain which washed out the first two sessions on day two of the series-opening match.

Amla was unbeaten on 90 and Jacques Kallis remained on 84, with South Africa unable to add to its overnight total of 255 for two because no play was possible before tea today.

Light rain continued throughout the day and the covers did not come off the wicket at any stage before 3 p.m. local time.

South Africa batsman JP Duminy was ruled out of the series overnight after rupturing his left Achilles tendon in a freak training accident after the opening day.

South Africa is sending for a replacement for the remainder of the three-test series.