Cricket Mourns Robin Smith, Who Has Died Aged 62.
During the period preceding the high-octane Twenty20 era, arguably nobody hit the cricket ball with more raw power than Robin Smith. Shaped with the physique of a fighter yet blessed with the nimble footwork from his mother, a dancer, his shots were unleashed – especially his trademark square cut – with such violence they dented in advertising boards while crushing the morale of opponents.
The cricketer's death comes after a prolonged illness, was a man riddled with paradox. To the public eye, he appeared the embodiment of a brave, front-foot player, famed for thrilling battles with the world's fastest bowlers. However, beneath this show of machismo lay a man constantly questioning his own worth, a conflict he masked throughout his career but which later contributed to battles with depression and addiction.
Unflinching Guts and a Thirst for Danger
His bravery versus fast bowling was unquestionably genuine. The source of this courage, was a complex blend of innate toughness and an admitted thrill-seeking nature. He seemed was neurologically unique, seeking out the punishing challenge of confronting express bowling, which demanded instant responses and a high tolerance for pain.
The ultimate demonstration came during an iconic undefeated knock of 148 playing for England facing the Caribbean pace attack at Lord's Cricket Ground in 1991. On a difficult pitch, against the rampant two of the greatest fast bowlers in history, Smith stood firm he positively flourished, his eyes reportedly sparkling the physical duel of bouncers and boundaries. He admitted afterwards the feeling was one of “tingling”.
A Notable Test Career
Playing largely at number five or six, Smith played for England over 62 Test matches and 71 ODIs between 1988 and 1996. He amassed over four thousand Test runs averaging 43.67, which contained nine three-figure scores. In ODI cricket, he gathered 2,419 ODI runs averaging just under 40.
Perhaps his most ferocious knock occurred in 1993 against Australia against Australia, where he smashed 167 ruthless runs. The display was so impressive that he was reportedly commendations from the Prime Minister, John Major. However, in a frustrating pattern, his team ended up losing the match.
The 'Judge' and a Troubled Soul
Dubbed ‘the Judge’ due to an early hairstyle reminiscent of a court wig, Smith's Test average remains highly respectable, especially considering he featured during a period of English struggle. A common view is selectors moved on from him too hastily by selectors post a fractious series of South Africa in 1995-96.
He admitted in his autobiography, he felt like a dual personality: ‘The Judge’, the tough, confrontational competitor who thrived on battle, and the man himself, a vulnerable person. Each persona were in constant tension.
His staunch allegiance could also be his downfall. Most famously he intervened to protect West Indian colleague Malcolm Marshall following racist slurs at a team hotel. When verbal requests were ignored, Smith knocked out the ringleader, an act resulting in a broken hand causing a lengthy spell on the sidelines.
Struggles in Retirement
Adapting to a world outside the dressing room proved exceptionally difficult. The adrenaline rush was substituted for the routine demands of commerce. Attempts at a travel company did not succeed. Compounded by problems in his marriage and mounting debts, he descended into addiction and severe depression.
Relocating to Perth accompanied by his brother Chris offered a fresh start but did not solve his core problems. During his darkest hour, he considered ending his life, before being talked back from the brink by the intervention of his child and a friend.
He leaves behind his companion, Karin, his son and daughter, and his brother, Chris.
