The Proteas no longer have the added advantage of home conditions which is why Coach Ottis Gibson believes that the best team should be adaptable and be able to win anywhere.

"Obviously the pitches will not be conducive to our style of play as they are at home but then we have to make that adjustment."

"I keep saying to the guys that if we want to be the top and the best team in the world, which is one of our goals, then we have to learn to play in all conditions."

"We feel quite ready for the challenge of trying to win a series over here," Gibson added.

Thursday's Test which will be played at the Galle International Stadium gets underway at 06:30 in the morning.