'One series loss doesn't take away credit from us'

The much-anticipated series against England turned into a damp squib in a matter of weeks, India losing three Tests in succession, thereby conceding the No.1 ranking as well.

However, if the team members are to be believed, all is not lost.

MS Dhoni put forth a rather straight forward perspective.

"Losing a series is something you can't guarantee," he explained.

"We shouldn't get critical of the fact that we have lost a series," he added.

India's captain said the team has to look for positives from their performance in recent years vis-a-vis the humiliating defeat in the ongoing series.

"You have to give the guys credit for performing the way they have in the last three years," he reasoned, adding, "We have been very consistent in the period.

"I am proud of the way this team has played in recent times."

Gautam Gambhir, his deputy, concurred.

"One series doesn't take the credit away from us," explained India's vice-captain.

"We have played some good cricket in that last two years. There is no shortage of effort whatsoever.

"It is not just that the results aren't going our way."

India's coach Duncan Fletcher also looked forth at the positives.

"Despite the defeats, the players have still put in some good performances.That shows they are still geared up."

"There is immense character in most of these individuals, especially the youngsters," Fletcher explained.

"The best way to go forward is to continue giving them opportunities, like what we did in the West Indies."

Hopefully, all this positivity translates into a performance at The Oval. Another defeat will ensure England a 4-0 whitewash.

Should it happen, all explanations will be meaningless.