England and West Indies draw third Test as rain strikes again

The weather at Edgbaston is not promising (GETTY IMAGES)

The rain-ravaged third Investec Test between England and West Indies concluded as a draw, after a third washout in five days was confirmed at Edgbaston.

Umpires Tony Hill and Kumar Dharmasena announced the inevitable abandonment this afternoon, after yet more bad weather in Birmingham.

The square remained under full cover throughout as forecast rain simply became heavier, and the final-day crowd amounted to barely double figures.

This match, already shorn of its first two days by persistent rain, had appeared destined for a stalemate in any case today - irrespective of the elements.

England, who closed last night on 221 for five in reply to the tourists' 426, established a 2-0 series lead with victories at Lord's and Trent Bridge and therefore already had the Wisden Trophy in the bag.

PA