Graeme Swann believes that captain Andrew Strauss "proved himself" with a knock of 61 against Sri Lanka earlier today.

The skipper's position in the side had been questioned following a run of 24 innings without a Test century.

Despite failing to break that duck in Colombo, spin-bowler Swann has insisted that the 35-year-old showed just what a good player he is.

"He proved himself today, he got another good start, and he'll be kicking himself he got 50 and didn't go on," Swann told Sky Sports News. "We're very happy. He's been having a few questions asked of him in the media. Everyone is behind him."

England will resume on day three with a score of 154-1.