Cricket: Key to face Warne in charity match

John Key will face on over of spin from Shane Warne on Sunday. Photo / Getty Images

New Zealand Prime Minister John Key will face an over from Shane Warne in Sunday's 'Fill the Basin for Christchurch' charity Twenty20 cricket match at the Basin Reserve.

Key will face Warne, the great Australian legspinner, in a special over during the innings break, joining cricketing legends, All Blacks and international movie stars in support of the event, a fundraiser for Christchurch in the wake of the deadly February 22 earthquake.

"I am delighted that John Key is taking part. This is becoming a very special event and the response from the players, celebrity match officials and the public has been tremendous," said match organiser and former New Zealand cricket captain Stephen Fleming.

"Shane tells me he won't be taking it easy on the Prime Minister and the players will be giving him a few tips to help him with his game."

Key joins actors Russell Crowe (Canterbury Invitation XI coach), James Nesbitt (Wellington Legends XI coach), Sir Ian McKellen (match referee), and rugby players Richie McCaw and Conrad Smith among those supporting the match.

- NZPA