England cricket icon Robin Smith has passed away at the age of 62. The renowned batsman, known for his 62 Tests played for England, died in Australia where he had traveled for the Ashes tournament.
The saddening news was disclosed by Smith’s close friend and former teammate Kevan James during an interview on BBC Radio Solent. Smith had been transparent about his struggles with alcoholism and depression, but the cause of his death remains undisclosed.
Attending the first Ashes Test in Perth recently, Smith reunited with former England colleagues such as Graham Gooch, David Gower, and Allan Lamb. Known as ‘The Judge,’ Smith, a stylish right-handed batsman, made his Test debut in 1988 against the West Indies, showcasing his talent with two centuries in the subsequent Ashes series.
Smith’s notable Test score of 175 was achieved in response to Brian Lara’s record-breaking 375 in Antigua. His Test career saw him amass 4,236 runs at an average of 43.67, including nine centuries.
Apart from Tests, Smith also represented England in 71 one-day internationals, contributing to the team’s journey to the 1992 World Cup final. His remarkable 167 not out against Australia in 1993 held as England’s highest ODI score until 2016.
Although he retired from international cricket in 1996, Smith continued playing for Hampshire until 2003, marking 21 seasons with the county team. Despite being regarded as one of Hampshire’s finest players, Smith faced personal challenges post-retirement, battling alcoholism and depression.
In a recent interview with The Times, Smith candidly admitted his ongoing struggles with alcohol and mental health issues, emphasizing the importance of seeking help and support. Despite setbacks and relapses, Smith’s resilience and determination were evident as he fought through challenging times.
The cricketing community mourns the loss of a true talent and a fighter in Robin Smith, whose legacy extends beyond the cricket field.