Blues' Shield hopes dampened by rain

NSW's Sheffield Shield finals hopes have nosedived after the final day of their match against Tasmania in Wollongong was washed out without a ball being bowled.

Sunny skies greeted the players at North Dalton Oval on Tuesday, but heavy overnight rain had a significant impact on the bowler's run-ups, and after several pitch inspections the match was called off during the afternoon session.

Bottom-side Tasmania, whose campaign for a spot in the final had long since evaporated, went into day four the better placed of the two sides.

NSW, having been bowled out for 253 in their first innings, were 1-141 in their second dig, still trailing the Tigers by 96 runs.

The first-ever first Sheffield Shield match in Wollongong was highlighted by a maiden double century from veteran Tasmanian batsman George Bailey (200 not out).

NSW's second draw on the trot has them slipping from second to fourth after South Australia and Western Australia moved into second and third respectively.

The Blues must now win their final two matches commencing with next Tuesday's fixture against South Australia in Sydney.