MELBOURNE, Dec 27: Australia’s Kevin Rudd has faced humorous rivalry for the prime ministership after stepping into the cricket commentary box beside retired spin legend Shane Warne at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on Saturday.

Joining the Nine Network crew during the second day of play in the second Test match between Australia and South Africa, the silver-haired Rudd took on a Richie Benaud-like appearance as he held the microphone.

But the real entertainment started when viewers were asked to vote: “Should Warne run for prime minister?” The poll started slowly with 51 per cent voting for Warney to stay away from The Lodge.

“I’m worried, I’m worried mate. You’re running half and half there,” Rudd said.

And the prime minister had more reason to worry as the former Australian leg-spinner found plenty of support.

“I’ve got absolutely no idea how to do it,” Warne said of the prime ministership. Rudd replied: “Mate, it’s all in the wrist action.”

Warne: “Okay, well then I might be half a chance if it’s all in the wrist.” The last update of the poll had 70 per cent of respondents in support of Warne running for the top job.

“I haven’t been this low for a long time,” Rudd said, faced with Warne’s approval rating.—Agencies