Bob Hawke could scull a beer in 11 seconds and was cheered by crowds when he downed one at the Sydney Test in 2012.
But if he'd done the same thing at the Boxing Day Test at the MCG this year, chances are he'd have been booted out.
Many tried to live up to the former prime minister's famous talent during the brief two-and-a-bit days of play, which saw Australia demolish England to win the Ashes, but security and Victoria Police had the last laugh.
Beer cup snakes were also rapidly dismantled.
The harsh action has been labelled as embarrassing by people on social media, with many questioning what Mr Hawke would have thought.
Some jokingly suggested beer cup snakes were banned because they would put cleaners out of work, while others questioned how fast was too fast to finish a beer.
Some called the eviction of people for sculling mid-strength beers unAustralian and an over-reach.
State opposition leader Matthew Guy was among the critics.
"If it was good enough for former prime minister Bob Hawke to scull a beer at the cricket then let's not go over the top (with rules)," he said on Tuesday.
He said Victorians have had such a hard two years they should be allowed to have a bit of fun.
"If it's a beer or two to scull, good luck to them," he said.
"I'm a public schoolboy, I reckon it's a great thing to do sometimes."
In a statement, Victoria Police said they often receive reports about drunk people behaving offensively and affecting the enjoyment of others.
"Sculling of alcohol is associated with intoxication and disruptive behaviour, which can lead to other public order issues," they said.
"We have a strong focus on the responsible consumption of alcohol to ensure all patrons are able to enjoy the cricket safely."
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