Chester-le-Street, July 1 -- The first T20I match of the bilateral series between India and England was abandoned due to persistent rain after the first innings here on Wednesday.

India batted first in the series opener and set a big target of 190 runs for the hosts, but the Three Lions couldn't come out to bat due to rain, and after more than one and a half hours of waiting, the match was declared abandoned.

This is India's third international match which has been called off at this venue. Two ODIs - one in 2002 and the other in 2011 had been called off.

Now, India will take on the hosts in the second T20I in Manchester on Saturday.

Earlier, it was a mixed day for the visitors as they made 189/7 despite losing a few early wickets in ...