Australia washed out in Brisbane

Australia's Cricket World Cup match against Bangladesh at the Gabba has been abandoned without a ball being bowled.

Heavy rain generated from Cyclone Marcia and the subsequent tropical low pressure system swamped Brisbane on Friday and persisted again on Saturday, meaning no play was possible.

The International Cricket Council has advised that ticket holders for the match are entitled to a full refund. 

Those who purchased their ticket via the internet or phone with a debit or credit card will receive a refund to the debit/credit card on which the ticket was bought.

Those who purchased their tickets at a ticket agency outlet should click here for details on how to be receive a refund.

Rain had eased early on Saturday and with the Gabba famous for its ability to drain quickly of surface water, there was some hope a reduced-overs match would be played later Saturday evening.

But a trough off the coast that was heading south changed direction and headed back towards Brisbane, lashing the city with even more rain.

The match was officially called off at 4:38pm local time. There are no reserve days for pool matches. 

The washout has delayed Australia captain Michael Clarke's comeback from hamstring surgery.

Australia will now head to New Zealand for Saturday's highly-anticipated clash against the Black Caps in Auckland while Bangladesh will play Sri Lanka at the MCG on Thursday.

Steve Smith shared in the disappointment of fans and spectators who were denied a match by the elements.

"It was obviously disappointing not to get out there today," Smith said.

"Sadly we can't control the weather.

"But we will take that one point and hopefully continue to play some good cricket for the rest of the tournament."

Bangladesh skipper Mashrafe Mortaza was also left frustrated, but the no result ensures Bangladesh need just one boilover to clinch a quarter-final berth.

"We were really looking forward to playing at the Gabba - this is really disappointing," Mortaza said.

"We are looking forward to playing Sri Lanka and England and to win against Scotland."