Former England batter Robin Smith died suddenly, aged 62
A former cricketing star has died suddenly in his South Perth apartment aged 62.
England cricket is mourning the unexpected death of its former star Robin Smith.
Smith, 62, played 62 Test matches between 1988 and 1996 with nine centuries at an average of over 40.
The respected Ashes figure lived in Australia and only a fortnight ago and addressed the England side before their practice match in Western Australia.
Smith had his challenges with alcohol and mental health troubles following his career but his family said it should not be speculated as part of his sudden death.
“Robin died unexpectedly at his South Perth apartment on Monday 1st December. The cause of his death is at present unknown,” the Smith family said in a statement.
“Robin, known widely as ‘The Judge’, was originally born in South Africa in 1963 to parents John and Joy and is the younger brother to Christopher (Kippy) Smith. Robin rose to fame as one of England’s most charismatic and popular players. A brave and dashing batsman, he excelled both for Hampshire and his adopted country collecting legions of admirers and friends along the way.
“Since his retirement from the game in 2004 his battles with alcohol and mental health have been well documented but these should not form the basis of speculation about the cause of death which will be determined at post-mortem investigation.
“This is an immensely difficult period for us all whilst we try to come to terms with our bereavement, and we would therefore much appreciate consideration for our privacy by media and cricket followers alike.”
ECB Chair Richard Thompson remembered Smith for his “incredible resilience”.
“Robin Smith was a player who stood toe to toe with some of the quickest bowlers in the world, meeting spells of hostile fast bowling with a defiant smile and an incredible resilience,” Thompson said.
“He did so in a way that gave England fans enormous pride, and no shortage of entertainment.
“He was a batter ahead of his time which was typified in that unforgettable unbeaten 167 from 163 balls in an ODI against Australia at Edgbaston in 1993.
“His record at Hampshire is exemplary, and he’ll be remembered rightly as a great of Hampshire CCC. We’re desperately sad to learn of his passing, and the thoughts of all of us in cricket are with his friends, family and loved ones.”
Originally published as Former England batter Robin Smith died suddenly, aged 62
