Perth, 3 December (H.S.): Former England batting star Robin Smith, one of the most fearless and charismatic cricketers of his era, has passed away suddenly at his home in Perth. He was 62. Fondly nicknamed “The Judge” for his trademark curly hair, Smith was admired for his grit and stylish square cuts against the fiercest of fast bowlers.

Smith represented England in 62 Test matches between 1988 and 1996, amassing 4,236 runs at an impressive average of 43.67, including nine centuries. His powerful and technically assured square cut became a signature shot of his career.He also played 71 One-Day Internationals (ODIs) and was part of the England squad that reached the 1992 Cricket World Cup final. His unbeaten 167 against Australia at Edgbaston in 1993 remained England’s highest individual ODI score until 2016.

According to a statement issued by his family through the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), Smith passed away on Monday, December 1, at his South Perth apartment. The cause of death remains unknown. The family urged against speculation linking his passing to his previous struggles with alcohol and mental health.

Born in Durban, South Africa, to British parents, Robin Smith later moved to England with his brother, Chris Smith, who also represented England. He made his Test debut against the West Indies at Headingley in 1988 and went on to score two centuries in Ashes contests and three against the West Indies. His highest Test score, 175, came in St John’s in 1994.After retirement, Smith settled in Western Australia and remained closely connected to the sport. He recently attended the first Ashes Test held in Perth last month and had been invited by coach Andrew Flintoff to address the England Lions team.

ECB chairman Richard Thompson paid tribute, saying, “Robin Smith faced the world’s quickest bowlers with a smile on his face. His courage, skill, and spirit made him one of the most beloved figures in English cricket and an inspiration to fans across generations.”

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar