South Africa had reached 71-2 when the players were forced off the field at 16:35 GMT by the rain, which had already caused a delayed start in addition to two lengthy stoppages.

The hosts remain 1-0 up in the three-match series after victory in the first ODI in Cape Town.

The third ODI takes place in Johannesburg on Sunday at 08:00 GMT.

England's previous two ODIs against South Africa in Durban in 2005 and 2009 were also both abandoned because of rain.

South Africa had made a decent start at Kingsmead after being put in to bat, with opener Reeza Hendricks hitting three fours in his unbeaten 35 off 34 balls.

Temba Bavuma also looked to be in good form - hoisting Tom Curran for a huge six into the leg side before being trapped in front by Chris Jordan from what proved to be the final delivery of the ill-fated contest.

Proteas captain Quinton de Kock was bowled by Joe Root for 11, missing a delivery that skidded on while trying to cut.