West Indies took a 1-0 lead in the three-match series after South Africa were set 389 to win but were dismissed for 260 with more than a day to spare. It was West Indies first win on South African soil at the 11th attempt and was their first win in a Test for two and a half years.

The Windies have beaten Zimbabwe and Bangladesh but their last major Test match win overseas was against England in Birmingham in 2000.

“Seven years is a long time, so can’t complain,” said West Indies stand-in captain Chris Gayle (pictured), who set the tone for the win with his first innings 66 off 49 balls. “The guys worked hard, its not a series win but it feels unbelievable.

“I am really pleased for the guys and especially for someone like (Dwayne) Bravo, who had played 23 Tests (before this one) and never won.”

He added: “I have been out because of injury but I wanted to play this game and be amongst the guys. A lot of scrutiny was on us so to get this victory is really pleasing. Hopefully we can capitalise in the second Test in Cape Town. (starting Wednesday).

“We know South Africa will come hard at us so we need to be ready for them. There is no need for complacency.”

The Proteas crashed to 45-4 and never recovered, despite a 112-run partnership between Jacques Kallis (85) and AB de Villiers (60). The wickets were again shared by the West Indies bowlers, who all showed maturity and discipline in their lines and lengths throughout the match. Fidel Edwards took 3-37 and Jerome Taylor 3-66.

Andre Nel (34) and Dale Steyn (33 not out) took South Africa closer to their target but they were never realistically in the fight once the Kallis and de Villiers partnership had been ended.

“Our skill levels on the first two days let us down and they took full advantage and played better cricket over the four days and they deserved their victory,” South Africa captain Graeme Smith said after the match.

“We have played some good cricket this year and to let ourselves down like this is very disappointing. Let’s hope we come back at Cape Town. We need to improve on all facets and grind out runs a lot more.”