A heavy downpour has stopped play in the Sheffield Shield match between NSW and Queensland midway through the final session on day one at the Sydney Cricket Ground.

Players left the field with 29 overs left to be bowled on Thursday, with the Blues reaching 4-207 following an impressive knock of 73 by discarded Test opener Phil Hughes.

Queensland quick Ryan Harris has been the pick of the bowlers, taking 3-69, while Steve Smith (40) and under-pressure wicketkeeper Brad Haddin (10) are the not out batsmen.

Should the rain persist, the day’s play will be called off at 5.30 (AEDT).