Ashes 2013-14: David Warner continues his fine form with the bat despite Sydney defeat

Warner hit a half-century off just 31 balls after he was afforded time at the crease away from the Ashes Series

Australia batsman David Warner in action for the Sydney Sixers (GETTY IMAGES)

David Warner continued his free-hitting form as he took a break from the Ashes battle on Saturday, although it turned out to be in a losing cause.

The Australia opener is the top series run-scorer with 457 after three Tests with England, but was allowed to play for Sydney Thunder against Sydney Sixers on Saturday.

He did not disappoint the crowd at the SCG, hitting 50 off 31 balls - an innings that included six fours and one maximum.

Warner shared an opening-wicket stand of 116 with Usman Khawaja, with England pair Eoin Morgan and Chris Woakes coming in down the order to no effect in a total of 166 all out.

Steve Smith, another of the Baggy Green's urn-winning side, featured for the Sixers and made 22 in their pursuit which led to a six-wicket win..

Nic Maddinson did most of the work with a fine 61, while England all-rounder Ravi Bopara at the crease when the winning runs arrived, the Essex man making 27.

PA