Cricket Mourns The 'Judge', Aged 62.
During the period preceding the explosive T20 format, few could match the leather with more raw power than Robin Smith. Constructed like a boxer but possessing the quick feet of his ballet dancer mother, he unleashed strokes – notably his ferocious square cut – with such violence that they left dents in perimeter fencing and shattered the hopes of the opposition.
Smith has passed away after a lengthy battle with poor health, was a man of profound contradictions. Outwardly, he appeared the embodiment of fearless, attacking batsmanship, renowned for memorable contests with fearsome quicks. But behind this show of machismo existed a deeply insecure individual, a struggle he concealed while on the field that subsequently led to struggles against depression and addiction.
Unflinching Guts and a Thirst for Danger
His bravery versus fast bowling could never be doubted. But the driving force, was a curious mix of innate toughness and a confessed thrill-seeking nature. He seemed was built differently, positively relishing the masochistic test of confronting express bowling, a situation requiring instant responses and a willingness to suffer physical punishment.
This trait was never better displayed during an iconic undefeated knock of 148 playing for England facing the Caribbean pace attack at Lord's in 1991. On a tricky surface, against the rampant two of the greatest fast bowlers in history, 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 experience as leaving him “tingling”.
A Notable Test Career
Featuring mostly as a middle-order batsman, He earned caps for England across 62 Tests and 71 One-Day Internationals between 1988 and 1996. He accumulated over four thousand Test runs at an average of 43.67, which contained nine three-figure scores. In the 50-over format, he gathered 2,419 runs at an average close to 40.
A particularly brutal innings was played in 1993 against Australia facing the Aussies, where he smashed a devastating 167. The innings was so powerful he earned commendations from the Prime Minister, John Major. Sadly, a recurring theme, England could not secure victory the match.
The Moniker and Lasting Contradictions
Known widely as ‘The Judge’ after a wig-like haircut resembling a judicial wig, Smith's Test average remains highly respectable, not least because he played for a frequently defeated England team. Many believe selectors moved on from him somewhat unfairly following a contentious trip in South Africa during the mid-90s.
As he later confessed, he felt like two people: ‘Judge’, the arrogant, combative cricketer who lived for conflict, and the man himself, a gentle, feeling individual. Each persona fought for dominance.
An unshakeable sense of loyalty could also be his downfall. Most famously saw him defend West Indian colleague Malcolm Marshall against racial taunts in a hotel bar. When verbal requests were ignored, he punched the ringleader, a move resulting in a broken hand and cost him a significant layoff.
Struggles in Retirement
Moving on from the game outside the dressing room was immensely challenging. The thrill of competition was replaced by the mundane realities of running companies. Ventures into a travel company ultimately faltered. Compounded by problems in his marriage and financial woes, he fell victim to alcohol dependency and deep depression.
Relocating to Perth alongside his children provided a new beginning but couldn't resolve his personal demons. At his lowest point, he contemplated suicide, and was only saved from that decision by the intervention of his son and a compassionate neighbour.
Robin Smith is survived by his companion, Karin, his son and daughter, and elder brother Chris.
