Rain played spoilsport on Wednesday, the fifth day of the third and final cricket Test match, as it barred New Zealand from levelling the three-match Test series against South Africa at the Seddon Park here.

South Africa were struggling at 80/5 in their second innings with Faf du Plessis (15) and Quinton de Kock (15) at the crease. 

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But continuous rain forced the umpires to abandon play without a ball being bowled.

Earlier, New Zealand skipper Kane Williamson struck a brilliant 176 to give his side a 175-run lead in the first innings.

Following the draw, South Africa clinched the three-match series 1-0 having won the second Test in Wellington by eight wickets.