Haynes the hero in big win over Stars

A devastating opening partnership has lifted Sydney Thunder to a comfortable nine-wicket victory over Rebel WBBL strugglers Melbourne Stars in Sydney.

Rachel Priest and Australia captain Rachael Hayes put on a big-hitting opening stand of 95 off just 11 overs for the opening wicket to help the home side cruise to victory on Saturday with a full 4.5 overs to spare.

The Thunder made it three wins from four outings scoring 1-135 to pass the winless Stars' total of 4-132.

Haynes starred with a dominant unbeaten knock of 78, scored off just 51 balls, while Priest contributed 42 off 33 as the runs flowed in hot conditions at Howell Oval in Penrith.

Batting wasn't quite so easy for the visiting Stars, who struggled to get their run rate above six an over, having seen Lizelle Lee dismissed on the first ball of the innings.

Mignon du Preez top-scored for the Stars with an impressive 58 off 49 balls and there were contributions from Anna Lanning (35) and Georgia Elwiss (23).