Batsman David Miller found individual consolation amid collective disappointment, as South Africa slipped to a tight one-wicket defeat in Sunday’s fourth ODI against the West Indies at St George’s Park in Port Elizabeth.

Miller, who debuted in international cricket almost five years ago, welcomed a maiden century in a formidable total of 262 for eight. The hard-hitting left-hander struck 11 fours and a trio of handsome sixes en route to a fine 130 not out from 133 deliveries.

The superb vigil, however, proved in vain. The Windies, spearheaded by a quickfire half-century from all-rounder Andre Russell, surpassed the tough target with three deliveries to spare. The home attack, minus the services of the rested Imran Tahir, Vernon Philander and Imran Tahir, proved largely inadequate.

‘It was a massive boost. I have been feeling confident over the last few months, but it was really nice to finally get the century,’ said Miller.

‘I believed over the last six, seven months that I could score a century, so it was a great feeling to score the first one.’

The Proteas sport an unassalable series lead despite the weekend’s defeat. The fifth and final ODI will be played in Centurion on Wednesday.