Sydney Thunder fall from atop of the table as bizarre bat mishap leaves Warner stunned

David Warner was left searching for a new bat after a bizarre mishap in the middle in the Thunders' six-wicket defeat to the Hobart Hurricanes.

The blockbuster battle was nothing short of thrill as Warner powered to 88 runs off 66 to cement his position atop of the run-scoring charts for the current season.

But his quest to 88 was not as simple as he hoped, having broken his bat on the back of his helmet in third over.

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Attempting a cover drive, Warner hit the top of his bat on the back of his helmet causing an immediate snap.

Warner ducked after completing his swinging action and was left stunned as his bat dangled below him.

The mishap caught Fox Cricket's commentary by surprise as the bat remained partially intact.

"Kaboom. Straight into the back of the helmet," Brendon Julian said.

"I don't think I've ever seen that. I can't believe I've seen that."

Brad Haddin, former Australian wicketkeeper, added: "I haven't either. I have never seen that."

Warner admitted post-match that the break came as a surprise to him on the field, noting that bat had not split in half as it commonly would.

"It stunned me," he said, speaking with 7 post-match.

"I creamed it and I was like, 'oh, what was that'.

"I've not actually broken a bat like that before... I will have to get that repaired next week."

Warner's efforts with the new bat were not enough to save the Thunder from dropping down the table as the Hurricanes produced a dominant six-wicket win.

Chasing 165 runs, Matthew Wade and Mitch Owens positioned the hosts in strong position to attack in an innings filled with sixes and fours.

Tom Andrews was the only Thunder bowler able to slow the Hurricanes charge, finishing his spells with 1 for 17 off four.

Tim David was the difference for the Hurricanes, taking full advantage of the two-over power surge to make 38 runs.

The Thunder will be back in action on Monday against the Perth Scorchers, while the Hurricanes face the Renegades on Tuesday.