Dale Steyn grabbed a match haul of 9-99 as South Africa thrashed Sri Lanka by 153 runs on Sunday on the fifth and final day of the first Test.
Steyn’s figures, the best by a quick at the Galle ground, helped the visitors bowl out Sri Lanka twice in the match despite a wicket which offered little help.
It was only South Africa’s third win on the island and their first since 2000.
Steyn was well-supported by seamer Morne Morkel, who picked up four wickets as Sri Lanka’s second innings ended on 216 shortly into the second session.
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The victory was especially sweet for Hashim Amla, who was leading the side for the first time in Test cricket.
Amla celebrated his winning start by hugging his teammates and exchanging high fives.
South Africa can now reclaim their top world ranking from Australia if they win the second and final Test in Colombo from July 24-28.
Part-time spinner Jean-Paul Duminy picked up two wickets including the crucial scalp of Kumar Sangakkara, who made a fighting 76 to salvage some pride for the hosts.
Sri Lanka, who had resumed on their overnight 110-1, added just 51 off 24 overs in the first session while losing five wickets.
