The hosts have failed to win any of their last four Test series at home - losing to Australia before drawing with England, India and Australia - while Sri Lanka are seeking their first Test victory anywhere since July 2010.
That match against India coincided with the final appearance before retirement of legendary spinner Muttiah Muralitharan, who helped his team to victory over India in Galle.
Since then Sri Lanka have lost four and drawn 10 of their 14 Tests.
The tourists are at least boosted by the likely presence in their side of key batsman Kumar Sangakkara, who is recovering well after splitting the webbing on his right hand whilst fielding in a warm-up match.
Sri Lanka vice-captain Angelo Mathews acknowledges his team's batsmen are likely to face a hostile opposition bowling attack on a lively pitch, making Sangakkara's presence even more crucial.
Mathews said: "The main thing we need to adapt to is the bounce and the pace. The team is in a good mood but we need to show it out there on the field."
Sri Lanka's bowling options have been further limited by the withdrawal from the squad of pace man Nuwan Pradeep, who tore a hamstring over the weekend.
South Africa have no such injury concerns as they get ready to unleash a pace attack spearheaded by Dale Steyn on a wary opposition.
Teams
South Africa (probable): Graeme Smith (capt), AB de Villiers (vice-capt), Jacques Rudolph, Hashim Amla, Jacques Kallis, Ashwell Prince, Mark Boucher (wkt), Vernon Philander, Dale Steyn, Morne Morkel, Imran Tahir
Sri Lanka (from): Tillakaratne Dilshan (capt), Angelo Mathews (vice-capt), Tharanga Paranavitana, Kumar Sangakkara, Mahela Jayawardene, Dinesh Chandimal, Kaushal Silva (wkt), Lahiru Thirimanne, Dimuth Karunaratne, Chanaka Welegedara, Dilhara Fernando, Thisara Perera, Ajantha Mendis, Rangana Herath, Thilan Samaraweera
