Remembering The 'Judge', Who Has Died Aged 62.

During the period preceding the high-octane T20 format, no one struck the leather with more raw power as Robin Smith. Shaped with the physique of a fighter yet endowed with the quick feet from his mother, a dancer, he produced shots – the square cut in particular – with such violence they could dent in perimeter fencing while crushing the hopes of the opposition.

Smith has passed away following a long period of ill health, presented as a figure filled with stark contrasts. On the surface, he was the very image of fearless, attacking batsmanship, famed for epic duels with fearsome quicks. But behind this mask of confidence existed a person plagued by self-doubt, a conflict he masked during his playing days but which later led to problems of depression and addiction.

Sheer Bravery Mixed with a Desire for the Rush

His courage facing quick bowlers was utterly authentic. The motivation, however, was a curious mix of pure grit and an admitted addiction to adrenaline. He seemed wired differently, seeking out the brutal examination of confronting express bowling, which demanded lightning reflexes and an ability to absorb blows.

The ultimate demonstration came during his legendary undefeated knock of 148 representing his country facing the Caribbean pace attack at Lord's in 1991. In challenging conditions, as Curtly Ambrose and Malcolm Marshall, Smith not only survived but thrived, relishing the brutal exchange of bouncers and boundaries. He admitted afterwards the feeling was one of “buzzing”.

A Stellar International Career

Batting primarily at number five or six, Smith played for England over 62 Test matches and 71 One-Day Internationals from the late 80s to the mid-90s. He amassed 4,236 Test runs at an average of 43-plus, featuring nine hundreds. In the one-day arena, he compiled almost two and a half thousand runs averaging close to 40.

One of his most destructive displays came in 1993 in Birmingham facing the Aussies, blasting a devastating 167. It was such a domineering performance that he was reportedly direct praise from the country's leader. Sadly, a recurring theme, the side could not secure victory the game.

The 'Judge' and a Troubled Soul

Dubbed ‘The Judge’ after a wig-like haircut reminiscent of a court wig, Smith's Test average remains highly respectable, not least because he played during a period of English struggle. Many believe selectors moved on from him too hastily by selectors post a fractious series to South Africa during the mid-90s.

In his own words, he was two distinct characters: ‘The Judge’, the ruthless on-field warrior who loved a fight, and plain Robin, a sensitive, emotional man. Each persona fought for dominance.

His fierce loyalty could also be his downfall. Most famously he intervened to protect fellow Hampshire player Malcolm Marshall following racist slurs in a hotel bar. Following unsuccessful appeals, Smith knocked out the primary abuser, a response resulting in a broken hand and cost him six weeks of cricket.

Struggles in Retirement

Moving on from the game post-cricket became a huge struggle. The thrill of competition was replaced by the ordinary pressures of commerce. Ventures into bat manufacturing ultimately faltered. Coupled with a strained relationship and financial woes, he fell victim to heavy drinking and deep depression.

A move to Australia accompanied by his brother Chris provided a new beginning but failed to fix his core problems. At his lowest point, he contemplated suicide, only being pulled back from that decision by the intervention of family and a neighbour.

He leaves behind his companion, Karin, his two children, and elder brother Chris.