The fourth day of the third Test between Australia and the West Indies has been rained out, with the doomed contest heading for a draw at the SCG.

No balls were bowled in a sodden Sydney on Wednesday, with the West Indies still stuck in their first innings at 7 for 248.

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The situation has prompted Cricket Australia to open the gates and offer free entry on day five, with mildly better weather expected tomorrow.

A full refund has been offered for patrons who bought tickets for day four.

“Only 86 overs have been bowled in the game so far with no play possible on days three and four,” a Cricket Australia statement said.

“However, fans will still have the opportunity to see the Australian and West Indies teams in action on day five with Australian captain Steve Smith set to lift the Frank Worrell Trophy at the end play.”

Australia has an insurmountable 2-0 series lead in the three-Test series, after wins in Hobart and Melbourne.