Former England cricketer Robin Smith, one of the most fearless batters of his era, passed away at his home in Perth, Australia, on Tuesday (December 2, 2025). He was 62.
Smith played 62 Tests for England between 1988 and 1996, scoring 4236 runs at an impressive average of 43.67, including nine centuries. But his impact extended far beyond the numbers. Known for his courage and impeccable technique against high-quality fast bowling, Smith built his reputation during an era dominated by elite West Indies pacers such as Curtly Ambrose, Courtney Walsh, Malcolm Marshall and Patrick Patterson.
At a time when several England players struggled against relentless pace, Smith stood firm. His withering square cut, regarded as one of the most destructive strokes in cricket history, became his trademark. Between 1990 and 1995, he was at his peak, playing a major role as England drew back-to-back Test series against West Indies — both ending 2-2, first in the 1990–91 away tour and then at home four years later.
England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) Chair Richard Thompson paid tribute, saying:
“Robin Smith was a player who stood toe to toe with some of the quickest bowlers in the world, meeting hostile spells with a defiant smile and remarkable resilience. He gave England fans enormous pride and entertainment. His unbeaten 167 off 163 balls against Australia at Edgbaston in 1993 was ahead of its time.”
Smith enjoyed a distinguished domestic career with Hampshire, where he is remembered as one of the club’s greats. Born in Durban in 1963, he later moved to England, influenced by fellow South Africans Barry Richards and Mike Procter. He made his Test debut at Headingley in 1988 and formed a strong middle-order partnership with Allan Lamb.
However, spin remained his only major weakness, exposed during England’s 1992 tour of India and exacerbated by the emergence of Shane Warne in the early 1990s. Smith, affectionately known as “Judge” for his hairstyle, was close to Warne and played a role in bringing him to Hampshire.
As the ECB moved towards a newer generation of players in the late 90s, Smith’s international career came to an end. After retiring, he relocated to Australia but stayed connected to English cricket while battling alcoholism.
His passing marks the end of an era for English cricket, with tributes pouring in for a player admired for his toughness, elegance and unwavering spirit.
