Sri Lanka, March 18 -- Dunedin rain washed away hopes of a series result between New Zealand and Sri Lanka after only 14.1 overs were possible in the third T20I on Tuesday.

New Zealand reached 101 for 3, with Georgia Plimmer unbeaten on 46 and Suzie Bates scoring 31, before persistent rain ended the match.

Bates and Plimmer had shared a 60-run stand in eight overs before the first rain delay. Bates fell to Chamari Athapaththu for 31 off 28 balls before rain interrupted play again.

The match was reduced to 15 overs per side after the second delay. Sri Lanka's bowlers claimed two quick wickets on resumption, but Plimmer continued her strong form with three boundaries and two sixes before rain forced an early end.

Athapaththu was named p...