Rain dents Blues' Shield hopes against Tasmania at SCG

Rain has prevented play starting on day four of the Shield clash between NSW and Tasmania in Sydney. (Craig Golding/AAP PHOTOS) (AAP)

New South Wales's hopes of a much-needed Sheffield Shield win have suffered a major blow with the first session of play on day four against Tasmania falling victim to ongoing showers in Sydney.

NSW declared late on day three to set Tasmania a relatively modest victory target of 287, with the visitors progressing to 0-6 at stumps.