Even as the sun was shining bright at the Rajiv Gandhi Stadium in Uppal area, the groundsmen kept the covers on with heavy rainfall in central area, some 10km from the stadium as thick clouds could be seen in the background.
The match officials had a review of the situation around the scheduled time and the start was delayed in anticipation of rain.
Electing to bat, India were 307 for five at stumps on day one with Cheteshwar Pujara batting on 119, his maiden Test century in four matches, while skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni was giving company on 29.
The second and final Test of the series will be held in Bangalore from August 31-September 4.