Nathan Ellis' catch to dismiss David Miller. [Source - X.com]South Africa and Australia have got their much-anticipated three-match ODI series underway on Thursday, with the 1st ODI taking place at Kingsmead in Durban as the hosts look to set the tone for the series at home again.Batting first, South Africa were aiming to post a strong total and put Australia under pressure in the chase, with David Miller walking out amid added attention after being left out of Cricket South Africa’s central contract list.However, Miller’s first appearance since the contract snub ended disappointingly, with Nathan Ellis pulling off a magnificent catch to dismiss the experienced South African batter before he could make any damage in 1st ODI.Nathan Ellis Takes Stunning Catch to Dismiss David Miller in AUS vs SA 1st ODISouth Africa endured a difficult start after being asked to bat first, losing both openers early before Temba Bavuma and Matthew Breetzke steadied the innings. Australia struck back with wickets, bringing David Miller to the crease at No. 6.Miller struggled to find his rhythm and remained unable to break free before Nathan Ellis produced a moment of magic in the 34th over. The Australian pacer pulled off a stunning catch off his own bowling, leaving everyone on edge.Here is the video of Nathan Ellis' incredible catch to dismiss David Miller in AUS vs SA 1st ODI.Cricket Dani @CricketDani56 Nathan Ellis Strike 🔥 A Disappointing Comeback Innings From David Miller 🙂 Sep 24, 2026, 4:25 PM Also Read: Watch- Matthew Breetzke's Powerful Six Injures Fan Girl In DurbanIt was the fifth ball of the 34th over when Ellis bowled a short-of-a-good-length delivery to Miller, who tried to tap it towards the leg side. However, the ball held up slightly and produced a leading edge.The ball popped up towards Ellis, who reacted instantly in his follow-through. He moved across quickly before diving to his right and getting both hands, completing a stunning catch to send Miller back for 9(25).David Miller Endures Embarrassing ODI Comeback After Central Contract SnubDavid Miller’s miserable outing carried extra weight given the circumstances around his selection, having been left out of Cricket South Africa’s central contract list. The experienced batter had expressed his desire to keep playing for the Proteas despite the setback.It was also Miller’s first ODI appearance since March 2025, making his dismissal for just nine off 25 balls all the more embarrassing. He had little time to settle before Ellis’ stunning catch brought his stay in the AUS vs SA 1st ODI to an early end.Why Was David Miller Left Out of South Africa’s Central Contract?David Miller was left out of South Africa’s central contract as his role in the national team has changed, with his international commitments increasingly overlapping with franchise cricket. His previous arrangement offered flexibility, while younger batters now challenge for middle-order places.That context made his return in AUS vs SA ODIs more significant, but Miller endured a frustrating outing at Kingsmead. He scored only nine runs before Nathan Ellis’ stunning catch ended his innings, adding another disappointing chapter to his ODI return.Also Read: Batting Records That Virat Kohli Can Create In India vs West Indies ODIs