The home team whitewashed Pakistan 3-0, earlier in the summer.
Proteas' skipper Faf du Plessis is intent on dominating the proceedings versus Sri Lanka in the two-match Test series that begins in Durban on February 13. South Africa is gearing up for another home Test challenge after a 3-0 series whitewash over Pakistan and one expects the hostility to continue.
"It's important for us to keep them under pressure to make sure they don't start the series well," Du Plessis was quoted saying on Tuesday, "If we can do that, possibly their breaking point will be a little bit sooner than it would (normally) be because of all the stuff that's happening away from the game."
Sri Lanka arrive here after three consecutive hammerings in New Zealand and Australia. And that's exactly what the home side is intent on encashing, said Du Plessis.
"They have had a tough time in Australia and there have been a lot of things happening away from their team," he added, "It's not ideal for them but I will always respect the opposition we play against. Our preparation doesn't change."
No bigger motivation than playing for your country but South Africans want to leave a statement against this opponent specifically. They lost 2-0 in Sri Lanka on raging turners at Galle and SSC last year.
"They beat us 2-0 in their own conditions which hurt us quite a bit," Faf confirmed.
As far as team news is concerned, Du Plessis hinted towards the inclusion of left-arm spinner Keshav Maharaj for a surface that has historically shown signs of wear and tear as the match progresses. While he would be desperate to continue with the battery of four fast bowlers.
(Inputs from AFP)