During the first session of play on Friday, television cameras spotted the 88-year-old in the stands and it didn't take long for members of the crowd to get excited.

It isn't Hawke's first skol of a beer at the cricket. He has been spotted at least three separate times guzzling down a cold one at the SCG and it is becoming synonymous with the former Labor PM.

In 2012, Hawke only needed a "one for the country, Robert" line from a fan to get him going.

With his face on the big screen, it was then up to an excitable Warne to commentate the moment.

"Show us your technique," Warne said. "He doesn't sip it, he gets it down in one. Look how quick he is."

In his younger days Hawke once downed a yard of ale - about 1.4 litres or 2.5 pints of beer - in 11 seconds, which at the time was a Guinness World Record.

However, Hawke did not seem to possess the same engine he once had as coverage cut to a Pat Cummins delivery as the time passed.

"Oh, oh, hang on, he hasn't finished yet," Warne said. "He is 88 years of age, give him a little bit of leeway."

Former England captain Michael Vaughan said: "You've got to say it's a pretty poor effort".

Shortly after though, Hawke finished the beer to the delight of the crowd and raised his glass in what might be one of the most Australian things you will ever see.

"Well down Bob, great work, super stuff Bob," Warne said.

Hawke's effort was lauded on social media afterwards, with many claiming it was quintessentially Australian. There were also others who felt it promoted binge drinking.