Torrential overnight rain meant the outfield was drenched when the teams arrived for what is only the third Test match at this ground.

Persistent wet weather led to umpires Aleem Dar and Billy Bowden making a definitive decision at 12.30pm.

Further rain was forecast over the coming days, which would hamper England's bid to secure a 3-0 series victory over a West Indies team who have won only twice in 38 Tests.