Meg Lanning and Annabel Sutherland fired as Melbourne Stars started their WBBL campaign in fine fashion with an 18-run win over reigning champions Hobart Hurricanes.

Stars captain Lanning, who over the role this season after Sutherland stepped down, made 71 from 52 balls and Sutherland added 57 from 35 to power their side to 192 for 4, batting first in the second match of a season-opening double-header at Junction Oval on Thursday. It was Stars’ highest total at the venue and also against Hurricanes.

Lanning belted 10 boundaries in her brilliant knock and put on 109 for the third wicket with Sutherland, who smashed five fours and a pair of sixes.

Both eventually fell lbw to Heather Graham, but not before they managed to put Stars in a strong position.

In response, Hurricanes power hitter Lizelle Lee blasted six fours and three sixes in her 57 from 33 balls, before falling to Kim Garth.

Former Stars captain Sutherland and England spinner Charlie Dean also shone with the ball

“I thought Annabel Sutherland batted incredibly well,” Lanning told Fox Cricket. “We had to soak up a bit of pressure early on and it was nice to see her whack a few around at the back end.

“She’s had an incredible 12 months and to see her go out there and play with freedom and show her skills … she’s one of the best players in the world. Hopefully it’s just the start for her this year.”
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