Gooch

London: Graham Gooch, England's batting consultant and a former captain, spoke to The Telegraph in the lead-up to the final Test.

The following are excerpts

Q What were your emotions when the last India wicket fell at Edgbaston and England became No.1 in Test cricket?

A Like the other members of the support staff, I was delighted. We realised that it was a reward for all the work put in over the last couple of years... I did get a bit emotional, but England have been consistent since winning back the Ashes in 2009... Consistency, as you know, is the name of the game. It takes you forward.

Looking back, what are the three reasons for England’s astonishing rise after being bowled out for 50-odd in the second innings at Sabina Park, in early 2009?

But that was a one-off... The No.1 reason is the Andrew Strauss-Andy Flower partnership... Secondly, there’s depth, which we saw when Tim Bresnan filled-in for Chris Tremlett... Finally, our batsmen have got into the habit of putting up big scores. That they’re doing it consistently has been making a difference.

Who should get more credit — the captain or the team director?

But why separate them? They’re one of a kind and have a strong desire for England to succeed. They have a clear sense of direction and want the team to keep improving. We don’t have an environment where one rests on the laurels.

What’s special about Strauss?

He’s respected and that’s important... He knows how to get the best out of his players and is eager to keep improving.

And, Flower?

He’s a keen student of the game, keeps pushing the boundaries... Challenges individuals... He’s such a strong character himself with lots of discipline... Like the captain, he’s highly respected.

The ego bit doesn’t come in?

No.

How about your own role?

You’ve known me for a number of years... It’s an honour to work with the England team... Flower asked me to come on board and I did... I don’t seek the limelight, I’m comfortable in the background. I’ve had my years on the front pages.

Is it easier getting to No.1 rather than actually staying there?

Absolutely... The bigger challenge is always to stay at the top of the ladder... We’ll have to be at the top of our game in the Gulf, when we play Pakistan, in Sri Lanka... And, obviously, when we host South Africa next summer... I believe we’ll be playing in India in 2012-13 and, so, that’s going to be another challenge.

Today, how are you looking ahead?

We’re not going to be arrogant just because we’re the No.1... But, yes, we’ll be aiming to win every match... Every Test match is precious. And, as has been said, there’s no question of resting on laurels.

The last one... Aren’t you surprised at the manner in which India caved in...

(Grins) India have under-achieved, that’s the reality... I don’t know if the workload has taken a toll... However, what has to be acknowledged is that England have played very well. India did arrive as a great team, and they’ve had one for some years, but haven’t looked that on the field.