Andrew Strauss believes that the comments made by Kevin Pietersen in his autobiography have "diminished" the success of the England team during his era as captain.

The Three Lions won The Ashes three times and became the number one ranked Test side in the world with Strauss as captain and Andy Flower as the team's coach. However, Pietersen hit out at Flower's management and claimed that he was bullied by members of the team.

Strauss has admitted that he feels hurt by the remarks, and believes that the shine has been taken off England's achievements during the era.

"The fact that there was so much negative comment from Kevin about such a successful period for English cricket was hurtful for all of us that had been part of it," Strauss told the Daily Mail.

"That is why the pride feels diminished. We all worked incredibly hard to achieve something special and it doesn't seem so special anymore.

"I still have great memories of that time as does everyone involved, hopefully including Kevin, but the problem comes when there is so much emotion over things."

Strauss retired from international cricket in August 2012.