The Thunder will take on Adelaide at North Dalton Park, with Wilson set to play a major role with the bat.

At just 20 years old, Wilson is one of the emerging stars of the sport and Haynes said she has a bright future ahead.

"She's been one of the form players in NSW this year, so it's great that she's been able to get an opportunity," Haynes said.

"To see her in Adelaide put on such a strong performance in her first game for the Thunder, it's really exciting and hopefully she'll get more opportunities."

Wilson was forced to wait to make her Thunder debut, a quad injury ruling her out of the early rounds.

She made an immediate impact once she did get an opportunity, scoring an unbeaten 47 of 39 balls in her team's loss to Perth a week ago and Haynes has been impressed by how hard Wilson has worked.

Read more: University of Wollongong students ready to take on the world

"One thing that stands out about her is her character, she's really tenacious and really determined to do well.

"It's no surprise from my point of view to see her out there and exhibiting those sort of characteristics and I think we'll see more of that throughout her career."

After a solid start to the season, the Thunder have struggled in recent weeks, losing their last three matches.

With the Strikers second on the ladder, Wednesday's match is shaping as crucial for the Thunder.

Sydney have struggled with the bat lately and Haynes said their batters must deliver on Wednesday.

"They're a dangerous team," Haynes said. "They've got a very good bowling lineup, Megan Schutt opening the bowling and Sophie Devine with bat and ball, we saw the other day five sixes in a row, she can be pretty formidable when she's on.

"We're going to have to be on our game, but likewise, we match up really well against them. It's going to be a close contest and as we've seen through the WBBL, there's not a lot separating the teams, so I'm expecting no different when we're down in Wollongong."

While you're with us the Illawarra Mercury is offering sport readers 20% off an annual digital subscription. Sign up to stay up to date with all the local sports you love for only $3.00 a week. Terms and conditions apply.