Mark Wood has admitted how weird it is to be on his first senior England tour without either James Anderson or Stuart Broad.
But the Durham paceman has revealed that the axed duo have sent messages of support and offered their help on text messages should any bowlers feel like picking their brains from a few thousand miles away.
They may or may not get taken up on their offer, but it shows their commitment to England doing well remains.
Without either legendary bowler there to speak up at team meetings or lead the group, others have already stepped up into their new roles, including Wood who is ready to take some extra responsibility.
“It is strange,” said Wood. “It is weird them not being here, but they’ve been on text messages with the lads and have messaged a couple to say that they’ve bowled a lot in the West Indies and if they need any advice they are here for us.
“I’m sure they will probably return in the summer. This is a chance to have a look at different players and something a bit fresher, but I’ve got no doubt them two will be back.
“I’ve got to take on a bit more leadership which is a bit strange. You’re used to having those two guys there and you filter into everything that they give you because they've got such a depth of knowledge.
“But I think with me being one of the senior guys trying to just pick little bits off them or bits off the coaches and maybe stand up and speak more in team meetings and things like that.
“It's just trying to be a good teammate and someone that can offer something for the dressing room in general and bring plenty of energy and focus to the group.”
Wood has long been an excellent tourist, always bringing up those around him, but it is on the field where his real strength must now lie.
He bowled with great heart and skill in Australia, and got his rewards with nine wickets in Hobart in the final match, the third of three in a row that should put his injury woes to bed.
And if he can play in all three in the Caribbean he will have a chance of emulating Steve Harmison’s series-winning impact from 2004.
“I was good after every game in Australia and felt I could keep playing so that is what I hope continues on this tour,” he added.
“There was no issue with my fitness and I could have honest chats about my body and my ankle, so I hope that continues.
“I haven’t got Harmy’s height which might be an issue when it comes to following him, but I did really well in St Lucia the last time I was here and that pitch had a bit of pace, so we’ll see what we get this time.”
Wood’s former skipper Paul Collingwood has taken interim charge and already the players appear to be responding to his collaborative approach.
“Colly’s done really well so far,” said Wood. “He’s been my captain and I’ve worked with him with England and now as the head coach.
“I think he's been really good. Really easy to go to and someone you can speak to openly.
“He has created a sort of group where the players can lead that and he’s wanted everybody to take their own ownership and responsibility.”
