England's spin-bowler Graeme Swann has confessed that he was in need of a break this winter.

The 33-year-old was not included as part of the one-day international squad that lost by five wickets to India earlier today, as the England selectors looked to give their key players time to recuperate.

Nottinghamshire's Swann has been plagued by an elbow injury over the last few months and with that in mind, he conceded that he was "very grateful" to have been given some time off.

"I did need a rest after the exploits of the winter. A lot of people are against having a rest and having family time, but it prolongs your career. If you are my age, it really makes a difference," he told BBC East Midlands.

"I do miss it. It's tricky being at home because you lose track of time and when the games are going on.

"I have two young children and they take up a lot of my time. You end up flicking the television on and there's a game there and it's a strange you are not involved in it. But I'm very grateful I was given a chance to miss a few games."

As well as Swann, James Anderson and Jonathan Trott were also rested for the ongoing series.