Start of play delayed after rain

LONDON, June 26 (Reuters) The scheduled start of play at Wimbledon was delayed by half an hour today following rain showers.

Play had been due to start at 1630 hrs IST on the outside courts but tournament referee Andrew Jarrett announced a delay following a morning of rainfall in southwest London.

Today's weather forecast is for rain to continue into the afternoon with some brighter spells later in the day.

Men's champion Roger Federer is due to open his title defence against France's Richard Gasquet on Centre Court at 1730 hrs IST.

REUTERS PDS HS1636