VVS Laxman returned home to Hyderabad last week from England, where he had a productive tour. First, he contributed in India’s famous Test series triumph. Coming in at crucial junctures, he registered an impressive average of 51.25 in five innings.

Then he extended his stay, playing for Lancashire as their overseas professional for five weeks. He nearly took the club to their first Championship title in more than seven decades. The 33-year-old is deservedly happy about his cricket.

Excerpts from an exclusive telephonic chat with Laxman soon after his return from England.

How was the experience of winning the Test series in England?

It is always a great feeling when we win Tests overseas. Since the West Indies tour in 2002, we have started winning Tests abroad but not a series. To be able to do that in the West Indies (2006) and England (2007) was great. And to be personally contributing to the victory in England was memorable. Winning in England gave extra satisfaction because we won against a very good side.

Why did the England win give you extra satisfaction?

It was a classic case of team effort. (MS) Dhoni at Lord’s played an uncharacteristic knock, not typical of him; Zaheer (Khan) with the ball at Nottingham; also Anil Kumble’s hundred at The Oval… it was a great effort.

The major factor for me was the opening partnerships we had. Dinesh (Karthik) and Wasim (Jaffer) laid a solid foundation. Whenever we did well overseas, the opening partnerships have been good.

Kumble is out there with his camera whenever someone reaches a milestone. When he reached to his first Test century, did anyone capture the moment for him?

All of us were so excited that none of us took out a camera. We were clapping for him from the balcony. There have been a lot of occasions when he has fought till the end. We have had good partnerships and during that knock, we were cheering each shot of his.

Rahul Dravid stepped down from captaincy upon returning from England. Was there any indication to that effect during the tour?

I was in Manchester playing for Lancashire when I heard the news. There was no indication at all. When he gave up the captaincy, I was surprised. He was leading the side well. It was a great team environment in England. Right from Chandu Borde sir to all the support staff, we enjoyed each other’s success.

India seem to be doing well without a coach — winning the Test series in Bangladesh and England and the World T20. What is your view on this?