Robin Smith, one of England’s last authentic counterpunches, has passed away at the age of 62. He was legendary for his gritty ferocity and passion on the field. Born in South Africa in 1963, Smith broke the mold of traditional racing to become a formative influence on motorsport throughout his celebrated career. He walked the same path as his big brother, former U.S. Rep. Chris Smith. As a teenager he signed for Hampshire and spent his whole county career there.
Smith first appeared for Hampshire in 1982, and established himself as a key player for the county. During the remainder of his playing career he appeared in 640 matches for Hampshire. His all-round contributions, one of the first great one-day players, helped the team win two Benson & Hedges Cups and a NatWest Trophy. His leadership qualities came to the fore when he captained the team in 1998-2002.
Internationally, Smith made an impression, playing for England 62 times in Test matches between 1988 and 1996. He accumulated 4,236 runs at an eye-popping average of 43.67 with nine hundreds to boot. His best innings was in 1993 when he scored an unbeaten 167 off 163 balls against Australia at Edgbaston. This unforgettable innings established a new record for the highest score by an England player in One Day Internationals (ODIs). It would keep that record until Alex Hales eclipsed it in 2016.
Smith in fact played 71 ODIs for England, scoring 2685 runs at an average of 39.01. During the World Cup in 1992, he was on the lineup but did not play in the final match. His international career ended unexpectedly at the age of 32. He had difficulties with the spin bowlers and was plagued by a long-term shoulder injury.
His numbers are a testament to the amazing player he is and the hard work he’s put in developing his craft. Smith’s storybook 22-year career came to an end in 2003. In those 26 years he racked up more than 26,155 first class runs at an extraordinary average of 41.51. He was an important figure for Hampshire right up until a few months shy of his 40th birthday.
Smith’s legacy extends beyond statistics. His affection for Hampshire was further reflected in his almost annual returns to play for the county while under international commitments. His unyielding dedication to the game eventually garnered the utmost respect during his time on the hardwood from both his colleagues and followers.
“Robin embodied the spirit of Hampshire. He loved playing for his county and rushed back from many of his 62 Test matches and 71 ODIs to join his county team to play Championship or List ‘A’ fixtures with relish.”
He was celebrated not just as a skilled batsman but as one of the most charismatic figures in cricket. His legacy is that there should never be a void in the cricketing community.
“He was one of the most popular players ever to play the game we all love, and he will be hugely missed by players, members, staff and supporters – not only in Hampshire but throughout the country and beyond.”
Rod Bransgrove, a prominent figure in Hampshire cricket, noted Smith’s status within the club:
“Robin Smith was a player who stood toe to toe with some of the quickest bowlers in the world, meeting spells of hostile fast bowling with a defiant smile and an incredible resilience.”
Robin Smith’s journey from South Africa to becoming a cherished figure in English cricket underscores his talent and dedication to the sport he loved. He shot to fame as one of England’s most dashing players. His accolades and impact will be felt for generations to come.
“Robin Smith is one of the greatest, if not the greatest, of all time Hampshire cricket heroes.”
In announcing his passing, Smith’s family expressed their profound sorrow:
“It is with the deepest and most profound sense of sadness and loss that we must announce the passing of Robin Smith.”
Robin Smith’s journey from South Africa to becoming a cherished figure in English cricket underscores his talent and dedication to the sport he loved. He rose to fame as one of England’s most popular players and will be remembered for his contributions both on and off the field.
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