Andre Agassi v Mark Philipoussis

3pm update:

The rain has eased but there's no sign of play yet. Still, it could be worse."It's bucketing in Calcutta," says Bryan Patten, who may or may not be related to a certain EU commissioner. "Seriously - writing emails to you beats wading through the water (it's a bit above ankle height on the 'footpath' which is about three inches higher then the road). At least I don't have to hear about Tim though." Nor does my Mum, Bryan. But, then again, she's deaf.

First set: Philipoussis 1-1 Agassi

Rain. Moments after Agassi returns Philipoussis serve for the first time (and follows up the volley with a classic forehand winner), the punkish spits develop into a steady trickle. Sadly, it's getting heavier by the second. We could be away for a while. Back to work it is then - I'll update you when I can.

First set: Philipoussis 1-1 Agassi

Bad news. The clouds, like a vicious wave of space invaders, are marauding downwards and starting to spit. Agassi holds to 15 but he's already looking towards the sky and shaking his head. We'll be off soon, mark by words...

First set: Philipoussis 1-0 Agassi

We're off! Philipoussis to serve. The Australian's adrenaline is flowing like the Ganges in flood season as he thumps two howitzers low into the net. But four humdingers later, Philipoussis has won the game - and puffs his chest out confidently.

Meanwhile the first email of the day is in. "I notice your infamous ranting colleague Scott Murray hasn't yet figured as part of the Guardian's Wimbledon 2003 team," says Janet Levy. "I sense a conspiracy." Au contrare, Janet. He's been on honeymoon (Sardinia since you ask) but will return tomorrow.

Pre-amble: Good afternoon everyone, and welcome to Guardian Unlimited's coverage of Andre Agassi against Mark "The Scud" Philipoussis. Make no mistake, this is Agassi's toughest test yet. Philipoussis, like most Australian men, is carrying a spare pound or twenty, but he certainly can serve and and possesses a huge, huge forehand. Still, the stats are with Agassi: he holds a 6-1 career record over the Australian, and won their only meeting on grass (game-by-game reporter dons anorak) in straight sets, 7-6, 6-3, 6-4 in Wimbledon 2000.