Gilkes, after taking part in all the Thunder's matches this season, lost his spot to Jay Lenton for Wednesday's match against the Melbourne Renegades at Canberra's Manuka Oval.

The Ulladulla product can either take his omission professionally or unprofessionally.

Gilkes is noted for his maturity and will no doubt be striving hard to get his place back in the team.

Thunder coach Shane Bond explained the reasons why Lenton replaced Gilkes.

"Matt has had a good opportunity in a tough spot to bat during this tournament," Bond said.

"He (Gilkes) is a fantastic young player and is part of our long term plans.

"However, he does have some areas of his game to work on."

"Jay Lenton has trained hard and deserves his opportunity."

The Thunder ended up becoming the first team this season to be defeated by the Renadges.

The Renegades made 4/172 and the Thunder replied with 7/122 after a rain delay and over reduction.

Lenton made two runs and was tidy behind the stumps.

The Thunder now plays cross-town rival the Sydney Sixers on Saturday.

Meanwhile, Nic Maddinson's Melbourne Stars remain the team to beat after they put the Perth Scorchers to the sword on Wednesday at Perth.

The Scorchers were rolled for 86 runs and the Stars passed the total with ease, only losing two wickets in the process.

The Stars, in a quirk of the draw, hosts the Scorchers at home on Saturday.

Hopefully, Shoalhaven's Maddinson will make his return from a shoulder injury.