Pollock hits out with the bat (Getty Images).

By Brenden Nel, PA International, East London

South Africa captain Shaun Pollock praised his side for their discipline in the 118-run victory over World Cup minnows Canada.

Pollock insisted it had been a "morale-boosting win" despite the fact that the hosts endured a dismal day in the field, dropping five catches and failing to bowl out one of the weakest teams in world cricket with seven pace bowlers.

Canada surprisingly chose caution over a run chase and batted their full 50 overs to reach 135 for five at a lowly run rate of 2.7 an over, frustrating the spectators at Buffalo Park after the hosts had amassed 254 for eight.

"In a way it worked out pretty well," Pollock said. "We struggled a bit with the bat but our middle order needed some time in the middle. Our discipline was very good, except perhaps for the catching, but that was perhaps also part of the tactic to keep the run rate down."

That last comment from Pollock jarred as it was the Proteas have now dropped 10 catches in their last four matches for a side which did have a reputation as one of the best fielding sides in the world.

But rather than criticise his own players, Pollock questioned the tactics of the doughty Canadians, in particular Ishwar Maraj, who finished unbeaten on 53 after taking until the 47th over to get his half-century.

"I was really surprised. The opener has to anchor an innings, but that was taking it a bit too far. At some stage with wickets in hand you have to go for your shots to relieve the pressure.

"But we are happy with the way it turned out, it helped those in the middle get a good work-out."

Canada captain Joe Harris said his side had done the right thing.

"We tried to restrict the runs when they were batting, and we were helped by the fact that it was a difficult pitch to play on.

"But they have some fine bowlers and we found it difficult to score off them."

Canada's final game of the tournament will be against New Zealand in Benoni on Monday while South Africa face Sri Lanka in Durban on the same day.