Cricket Mourns The 'Judge', Who Has Died Aged 62.

During the period preceding the explosive T20 era, no one struck the cricket ball with greater ferocity as Robin Smith. Shaped like a boxer yet endowed with the agile movement of his ballet dancer mother, his shots were unleashed – notably his ferocious square cut – with such violence they could dent in perimeter fencing while crushing the morale of opponents.

The cricketer's death comes after a lengthy battle with poor health, was a man of profound contradictions. On the surface, he appeared the embodiment of a brave, front-foot player, famed for epic duels with fearsome quicks. Yet, behind this mask of confidence lay a deeply insecure individual, a battle he concealed throughout his career but which later fuelled battles with alcoholism and depression.

Raw Courage Mixed with a Desire for the Rush

His bravery versus fast bowling could never be doubted. The source of this courage, involved a combination of pure grit and a confessed need for the rush. He seemed wired differently, seeking out the masochistic test of confronting express bowling, a situation requiring instant responses and an ability to absorb blows.

The ultimate demonstration came during his legendary innings of 148 not out playing for England facing the Caribbean pace attack at Lord's in 1991. On a tricky surface, as Curtly Ambrose and Malcolm Marshall, he did not merely endure but counter-attacked with gusto, his eyes reportedly sparkling the fierce contest of bouncers and boundaries. In retrospect, he said the feeling was one of “electrified”.

A Notable International Career

Batting primarily in the middle order, Smith represented England over 62 Test matches and 71 One-Day Internationals from the late 80s to the mid-90s. He scored more than four thousand runs in Tests at an average of 43.67, which contained nine centuries. In the one-day arena, he compiled almost two and a half thousand runs averaging nearing forty.

One of his most destructive displays occurred in 1993 in Birmingham versus the old enemy, hammering a brutal 167 runs. It was such a domineering performance he earned direct praise from the country's leader. However, in a frustrating pattern, England could not secure victory the match.

The Moniker and a Complex Legacy

Affectionately nicknamed ‘Judge’ after a wig-like haircut reminiscent of a court wig, his mean in Test cricket remains highly respectable, not least because he played in a losing era. A common view is he was discarded too hastily by selectors following a contentious trip in South Africa in 1995-96.

He admitted in his autobiography, he existed as two people: ‘the Judge’, the ruthless on-field warrior who thrived on battle, and plain Robin, a gentle, feeling individual. Each persona suppressed the other.

His fierce loyalty could also be his downfall. Most famously saw him defend fellow Hampshire player Malcolm Marshall from racist abuse in Leicester. Following unsuccessful appeals, Smith knocked out the primary abuser, an act which fractured his hand and cost him a significant layoff.

The Difficult Transition

The transition to life outside the dressing room became a huge struggle. The buzz of the game gave way to the routine demands of running companies. Attempts at a travel company did not succeed. Compounded by marital difficulties and mounting debts, he descended into heavy drinking and deep depression.

Relocating to Perth accompanied by his brother Chris offered a fresh start but failed to fix his personal demons. At his lowest point, he contemplated suicide, before being talked back from that decision through the care of his child and a friend.

He leaves behind Karin, his partner, Harrison and Margaux, and his brother, Chris.