Tributes Paid to Robin Smith, Who Has Died Aged 62.
In the age before the explosive T20 format, arguably nobody hit the cricket ball with such sheer force than Robin Smith. Constructed like a boxer yet blessed with the quick feet from his mother, a dancer, he unleashed strokes – notably his ferocious square cut – with such violence they dented in perimeter fencing while crushing the morale of opponents.
Smith, who has died after a lengthy battle with poor health, was a man filled with stark contrasts. To the public eye, he was the very image of a brave, front-foot player, famed for thrilling battles with fearsome quicks. However, beneath this show of machismo lay a person plagued by self-doubt, a struggle he kept hidden during his playing days only to later fuelled problems of addiction and mental health issues.
Unflinching Guts Coupled with a Craving for Adrenaline
His fearlessness against pace was unquestionably genuine. The source of this courage, was a complex blend of innate toughness and a confessed need for the rush. Teammates wondered if he was built differently, seeking out the brutal examination of standing up to thunderbolts, which demanded lightning reflexes and an ability to absorb blows.
This was perfectly illustrated during his legendary undefeated knock of 148 for England versus the mighty West Indies at Lord's Cricket Ground in 1991. On a tricky surface, against the rampant two of the greatest fast bowlers in history, Smith stood firm he positively flourished, apparently delighting in the physical duel of intimidation and strokeplay. He later described that it left him feeling “buzzing”.
A Notable Test Career
Playing largely as a middle-order batsman, Smith played for England across 62 Tests and 71 One-Day Internationals between 1988 and 1996. He scored over four thousand Test runs at an average of 43.67, which contained nine centuries. In ODI cricket, he compiled 2,419 ODI runs at an average just under 40.
One of his most destructive displays occurred in 1993 in Birmingham against Australia, hammering a brutal 167 runs. The display was so impressive that even the then commendations from the Prime Minister, John Major. However, in a frustrating pattern, the side ended up losing the game.
The 'Judge' and a Troubled Soul
Known widely as ‘the Judge’ due to an early hairstyle reminiscent of a court wig, his mean in Test cricket was notably impressive, particularly given his career spanned in a losing era. Many believe he was discarded prematurely by the panel after a difficult tour in South Africa in 1995-96.
He admitted in his autobiography, he existed as a dual personality: ‘Judge’, the ruthless on-field warrior who lived for conflict, and Robin Smith, a vulnerable person. The two identities were in constant tension.
His fierce loyalty could also be his downfall. In a notable incident involved him standing up for fellow Hampshire player Malcolm Marshall from racist abuse in Leicester. Following unsuccessful appeals, he punched the ringleader, a response that broke his own hand causing six weeks of cricket.
The Difficult Transition
Adapting to a world post-cricket proved exceptionally difficult. The buzz of the game gave way to the mundane realities of running companies. Businesses involving bat manufacturing eventually failed. Coupled with a strained relationship and mounting debts, he spiralled into addiction and deep depression.
A move to Australia accompanied by his brother Chris provided a new beginning but couldn't resolve his personal demons. At his lowest point, he considered ending his life, only being pulled back from the brink by the intervention of his child and a friend.
He leaves behind Karin, his partner, Harrison and Margaux, and his brother, Chris.
