Remembering Robin Smith, Aged 62.

In the age before the frenetic T20 format, no one struck the cricket ball with more raw power than Robin Smith. Built with the physique of a fighter but possessing the quick feet of his ballet dancer mother, his shots were unleashed – notably his ferocious square cut – with such devastating power they could dent in advertising boards while crushing the hopes of the opposition.

The cricketer's death comes following a long period of ill health, existed filled with stark contrasts. On the surface, he appeared the embodiment of fearless, attacking batsmanship, renowned for epic duels against express pace. But behind this mask of confidence existed a man constantly questioning his own worth, a battle he masked during his playing days that subsequently contributed to battles with alcoholism and depression.

Sheer Bravery Mixed with a Desire for the Rush

His courage facing quick bowlers was unquestionably genuine. The motivation, however, was a curious mix of pure grit and a self-confessed addiction to adrenaline. Many felt he wired differently, positively relishing the masochistic test of standing up to thunderbolts, which calls for instant responses and a high tolerance for pain.

The ultimate demonstration came during an iconic unbeaten 148 for England versus the mighty West Indies at the Home of Cricket in 1991. In challenging conditions, as two of the greatest fast bowlers in history, Smith stood firm but counter-attacked with gusto, apparently delighting in the brutal exchange of short balls and fours. In retrospect, he said that it left him feeling “buzzing”.

An Impressive England Tenure

Batting primarily as a middle-order batsman, Smith played for England across 62 Tests and 71 ODIs from the late 80s to the mid-90s. He scored over four thousand Test runs at an average of 43.67, including nine centuries. In ODI cricket, he made 2,419 ODI runs averaging just under 40.

One of his most destructive displays came in 1993 against Australia versus the old enemy, where he smashed a devastating 167. The innings was so powerful that he was reportedly personally congratulated PM John Major. Sadly, a recurring theme, England still failed to win the match.

The 'Judge' and a Complex Legacy

Affectionately nicknamed ‘the Judge’ because of a youthful haircut that looked like a judge's wig, his batting average in Tests was notably impressive, particularly given he played during a period of English struggle. Many believe he was discarded prematurely by the panel after a difficult tour in South Africa in 1995-96.

As he later confessed, he felt like two distinct characters: ‘the Judge’, the ruthless on-field warrior who lived for conflict, and the man himself, a gentle, feeling individual. These two sides fought for dominance.

An unshakeable sense of loyalty occasionally led to trouble. One well-known episode he intervened to protect West Indian colleague Malcolm Marshall following racist slurs in Leicester. Following unsuccessful appeals, he floored the ringleader, an act which fractured his hand and cost him six weeks of cricket.

Struggles in Retirement

Adapting to a world after professional sport became a huge struggle. The buzz of the game was replaced by the mundane realities of business. Businesses involving bat manufacturing did not succeed. Coupled with problems in his marriage and financial woes, he fell victim to addiction and severe depression.

Emigrating to Western Australia accompanied by his brother Chris provided a new beginning but did not solve his personal demons. During his darkest hour, he contemplated suicide, and was only saved from that decision by the support of his son and a compassionate neighbour.

His family includes his partner, Karin, his two children, and elder brother Chris.