Post by : Mariam
Al-Faris
Former England cricket great Robin Smith passed away at his home in Perth, Australia, on December 2, 2025, at the age of 62. Smith, known for his fearless batting style and strong character, played a major role for England during the late 1980s and 1990s. Even though his career ended many years ago, his impact on the game continues to be remembered with deep respect.
Smith represented England in 62 Test matches from 1988 to 1996. During this period, he scored 4,236 runs at an impressive average of 43.67, including nine memorable centuries. But numbers alone do not reflect the value he brought to English cricket. Many fans and experts believe Smith’s courage and determination during difficult matches made him one of England’s most admired cricketers of that era.
Smith earned a reputation as a tough and confident batsman, especially against some of the world’s fastest and most dangerous bowlers. He faced legendary West Indies pacers such as Curtly Ambrose, Courtney Walsh, Malcolm Marshall and Patrick Patterson—bowlers who were known for their speed and accuracy. While many players struggled, Smith stood firm with confidence. His ability to handle extreme pace made him a key player whenever England faced the West Indies.
One of his strongest shots was the square cut, which became famous for its power and precision. Cricket fans still remember it as one of the most aggressive shots of that time. Between 1990 and 1995, Smith played some of the best cricket of his career. He helped England achieve two important Test series draws against the West Indies. The first was in the 1990–91 series, and the second came four years later in England, both ending 2–2.
Richard Thompson, Chair of the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), praised Smith in his statement. He said Smith always stood fearlessly against world-class fast bowlers, carrying a fighting spirit that inspired English fans. Thompson also highlighted Smith’s unforgettable unbeaten 167 runs from just 163 balls in an ODI against Australia in 1993—one of the finest limited-overs innings of that decade.
Smith was born in Durban, South Africa, in 1963. He later moved to England to play for Hampshire after being inspired by well-known South African cricketers Barry Richards and Mike Procter. He made his Test debut in 1988 at Headingley and built a strong partnership with fellow South African-born player Allan Lamb in England’s middle order.
However, Smith struggled against spin bowling, which affected him during England’s difficult 1992 tour of India. The arrival of Australian spinner Shane Warne also challenged him further. Despite this, Smith maintained a close friendship with Warne and even played a role in bringing him to Hampshire in the mid-1990s.
Smith eventually moved to Australia after retiring from professional cricket but remained connected to English cricket. He also battled personal struggles, including alcoholism, but continued to be respected for his honesty and resilience.
The cricket community is deeply saddened by the loss of Robin Smith, a player remembered for his bravery, skill, and contribution to England’s cricket history.
English
