South Africa won before tea on day three after dismissing the hapless visitors for 192 and 130 on a pitch which offered assistance to the seam bowlers throughout.

The victory gave South Africa a 1-0 lead in the two-Test series with the second Test starting at Centurion on Friday.

Pollock said winning within three days exceeded his expectations despite the lively pitch.

"You never go in thinking that way but you always like to win it that way," Pollock said.

"It was clinical which was great - all credit to them."

After losing the toss on the first day, Pollock was delighted with the application South Africa displayed in the field.

"We bowled well throughout but after lunch on the first day we really did tighten things.

Skipper Sanath Jayasuriya singled out his side's inability to make runs on the first day after winning the toss.

"We didn't get it right on the first day," Jayasuriya said.

"South Africa got their length and direction right from the start."

Jayasuriya also bemoaned the loss of seamer Ruchira Perera after three warnings for running on the wicket, as well as his bowlers' general lack of discipline.

In South Africa's innings, 62 extras, including 31 no balls and five wides, were conceded.

"It was disappointing as a captain because the bowlers didn't bowl well at all.

"They were all over the place and bowled on both sides of the wicket.

"And also it was unfortunate to lose Ruchira for running on the wicket as well as Dilhara Fernando having trouble with his run-up."