Sri Lanka captain Mahela Jayawardene has praised his side's character following the first Test win against England.

Jayawardene hailed the patience of the team as they completed the 75-run win on Thursday despite a defiant century from Jonathan Trott.

The 34-year-old told Sky Sports News: "It's been a tough period for us, but the boys worked really hard to improve as a unit and today we showed a lot of character.

"England played really well and Trotty's innings was excellent.

"We had to hang in there and try and get those wickets."

The result means that Sri Lanka only need a draw in the second Test in Colombo next week to secure a series victory.