By Sam Lyon

Steve Harmison (pictured above), Stuart Broad and Graeme Swann are all firing in the nets so whoever comes in can do the job Matt Prior

Matt Prior insists England have what it takes to level the series against Sri Lanka in Colombo despite the absence of fast bowler Matthew Hoggard.

Hoggard misses the second Test, which starts on Sunday, with a back injury, and Prior told BBC Sport: "Losing him would be a massive blow for any side.

"But Steve Harmison, Stuart Broad and Graeme Swann are all firing in the nets so whoever comes in can do the job.

"We know what we must do and we're sure we can turn this series on its head."

Hoggard, who has 246 wickets from 65 Tests, impressed with figures of 4-29 in the first innings in Kandy.

But he broke down with the injury whilst bowling in the second innings of the 88-run defeat to the hosts in the first Test.

The Yorkshireman was able to bat on the last day - with a runner - but he missed Friday practice, and skipper Michael Vaughan later confirmed his absence.

606: DEBATE We have a good chance in the second Test, we just need to learn to press home advantages when we get them dantheman2311

And with the likes of Kevin Pietersen, James Anderson and Ryan Sidebottom also having to cope with niggles, England's preparations for the second Test could have been smoother.

However, Prior insisted: "Obviously we'd like everyone to be fully fit, but on tours like this you do get the odd niggle and injury and you can't allow it to be a distraction.

"This is the ultimate squad effort out here and everyone is backing each other up and supporting each other.

"And the whole squad - especially those who weren't fortunate enough to play in the first Test - have certainly been putting the work in off the pitch to ensure we're ready for Colombo."

The whole squad have certainly been putting the work in off the pitch to ensure we're ready for Colombo Matt Prior

Traditionally a turning pitch, Sri Lanka captain Mahela Jayawardene sprung a surprise before the match by hinting the hosts will still play only one spinner.

And England must decide whether to imitate that move and replace Hoggard with another seamer - Harmison or Broad - or play a second spinner in Swann.

But Prior has no worries about any of them being less than match ready, saying: "They all look in exceptional rhythm in the nets.