“There were a lot of players who weren’t happy, and a lot of captains who weren’t happy as well. Both Andys have been absolutely fantastic, and to all the players, they have all bought into it, and made sure we’re a happy dressing-room whether we win or we lose.”

Pietersen refused to believe that the Australians were toothless without Shane Warne and Adam Gilchrist. “I think we’ve got a good chance, but I don’t believe for one second that Australia are not as good a team without the likes of Warne and Gilchrist because their strength in depth is pretty good.

“It’s going to be a very tough series, not easy at all. People say they are ripe for the taking and stuff, but I’m sure they’ll be a force to be reckoned with.”