Scores of 81 and 51 in the last two Tests in Nottingham and Southampton, respectively, have put Rahane among the runs again after he endured a lean patch in the first two games, returning 2, 15, 13 and 18.

“Many people were speaking about him and whether he would do well in England this time. He didn’t focus anywhere else but on his cricket. That is something every player can take from him. As a teammate and as our captain, he helped us learn a lot from him.”

The Oval Test also marks the end of Alastair Cook’s England career. Rahane agreed when asked if Cook was one of the greatest players of the modern era in his book.

“Definitely. He made his debut against India and I think he has been fantastic for England,” he said. “As an opening batsman, averaging around 45, playing 160 Tests matches and playing for 12 years is magnificent – the way he handled his batting and all the pressure from the media. I’d like to wish him all the best for his post-cricketing career.”

While England have won yet another series at home, their record away from home remains ordinary – they have managed to win only two of their last 14 away Tests, including a 4-0 defeat at the hands of India during their tour in 2016-17. Does Rahane feel England can win away from home as well?

“Every team at home plays really well,” Rahane said. “In their conditions they are a really good team, an experienced team with the likes of Anderson and Broad in their attack and Moeen, who bowled really well in the last game. I think they can do really well abroad as well but at home, every team is very strong.”