Andy Flower insists that the England batsmen have learned from their miserable tour of the United Arab Emirates.
Having suffered a 3-0 Test series whitewash to Pakistan, England's batsmen were criticised for their inability to play spin bowling in sub-continent conditions.
Off-break bowler Saeed Ajmail in particular was a nuisance for the England top order, taking 24 wickets in the series at an average of 14.70.
However Flower believes that his players have learned from this experience, which could prove vital in shaping the upcoming tour of Sri Lanka.
"The biggest lesson we have had to learn is the skill against spin," said the Zimbabwean.
"This is going to be crucial as to how we do. If we can show what we learned from two months in the UAE, we can expect to do well.
"It's going to be tough. Sri Lanka are a good side and have just played some good cricket in Australia. They're hardened from having played good cricket and are in their home conditions."
England depart on Saturday for Sri Lanka, where they will play two Test matches.
Joe Fish
