Just 10 balls were possible at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium before match officials ceased play due to the the atrocious state of the bowlers' run-ups and the authorities subsequently opted to switch the match to the Antigua Recreation Ground.
Groundstaff are now facing a race against the clock to prepare the island's traditional international venue, which has not been used for Test cricket since 2006.
For the thousands of travelling fans suffering on this farcical Friday the 13th, the contingency plan at least offers them the chance to get what they paid for - to watch their team abroad.
The opening hour of the contest, after England lost the toss, was reminiscent of the shambles of the 1998 Jamaica Test which was scrapped after just 10.1 overs due to an unsatisfactory pitch.
“I remember being in a pub on my first pint, looking forward to the game starting, so to finish like that was very disappointing,” said Strauss, who finished unbeaten on six in England's seven for no wicket.
“From a fans' point of view it is just not right that Test cricket matches can be abandoned. Lessons definitely need to be learned.
“No-one feels more than we do for the spectators who have come out here. They have every right to be very disappointed with what has happened.
“The game of cricket doesn't need this, it's as simple as that.”
Soon after match referee Alan Hurst escorted umpires Daryl Harper and Tony Hill, the West Indies players and England batsmen from the field at 10.46am, to signal an abandonment of play for the day, work began to repair the troublesome turf.
But following extensive talks between the International Cricket Council, the two countries' boards, teams and match officials, it was confirmed that a 'third Test' would be played at the Rec at short notice.
Dr Julian Hunte, chairman of the West Indies Cricket Board, said: “Let me apologise to everyone on behalf of the board for what is quite rightly called an 'embarrassment'.
“The ultimate responsibility lies with the board and we are not shirking it.”
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they should ALL have been fired, brought back immediately, and replaced with young lads who have a desire to represent England, and are not just there for the sunshine and perks. what a bunch of losers. and it has been like this with the same shameful squad for years.