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Robin Smith embodied the spirit of Hampshire Cricket. His charisma, courage and trademark square cut made him one of the most admired players of his generation.
Smith embodied not only the true spirit of cricket, but also the very essence of Hampshire itself. His charismatic nature, unfailing warmth, and natural ability to connect with people made him beloved by teammates and supporters. On the field, he combined that approachable, often gregarious personality with a commanding and intimidating presence at the crease, becoming one of the most admired and respected players of his generation.
He was an extraordinary player and a great friend. A Hampshire icon, he was admired by teammates, respected by opponents, and adored by fans. Generous and fun loving, he had a rare ability to lift the people around him and make everyone feel welcomed and valued. His presence brought a warmth to our dressing room and every moment felt brighter for having him in it. His passing leaves a deep sadness, but his legacy and deep connection with the club will live on in all who knew him.
Giles White, Director of Cricket
As a former club captain, Smith led Hampshire with distinction between 1998 and 2002. Known affectionately as ‘The Judge’, based on his wavy hair, he was one of England’s most powerful and courageous cricketers of the 1990s. His reputation as a fearless batter was forged in some of the most challenging conditions the game could offer - most famously standing up to the legendary West Indian pace attack with bravery, technique, and a square cut that became the hallmark of his career.
Smith enjoyed playing against the West Indies and his performances there helped cement his reputation as one of England’s toughest batters of that generation. In a period when many overseas players struggled against Caribbean pace, Smith stood out.
Robin was simply the best batter around at the time. When he was at the crease, we always felt we would chase down any total that was set us. Off the field, he was always laughing and joking, a real breath of fresh air.
Kevan James, BBC Radio Solent Commentator and Former Hampshire All-Rounder
By the time he retired in 2003, Smith had carved out a record that remains etched in Hampshire history. He was the only man to surpass 10,000 limited-overs runs for the club, while his 19,894 first-class runs placed him ninth on Hampshire’s all-time list. Beyond the statistics, he leaves behind a legacy built on an unwavering love for the game.
He was the best at what he did for a living in the world for two years and that's very rare but there is commitment to Hampshire, his commitment to England, he'd bat anywhere, he'd field anywhere, he'd do anything that he could. He gave himself and his heart and soul to the club and to England and his record stands up against the best...I just can't describe how great he was as a player and as a person and this world's a sadder place today that's for sure.
Shaun Udal, Ex-Hampshire and England Bowler
Born in Durban, South Africa, Smith grew up playing cricket on a pitch his father created. He moved to England with his elder brother Chris Smith in 1983, where both played for years with Hampshire. The brothers also played for England, under parental residency rights. A family man, Smith would prepare for matches by heading to nets with his father manning the bowling machine and, following retirement from cricket, helped his brother run his clothing business.
Smith was also part of the conversation with Rod Bransgrove OBE, friend and Group Chairman of Hampshire Cricket, to save the club and create the Rose Bowl (now Utilita Bowl).
Hampshire Cricket extends its heartfelt condolences to Robin’s family, friends, and all those who had the privilege of knowing him. His loss will be felt deeply across the cricketing community, but the memories and impact he leaves behind will endure long into the future.
Robin Smith embodied the spirit of Hampshire Cricket. His charisma, courage and trademark square cut made him one of the most admired players of his generation.
Robin represented Hampshire for over two decades from 1982 to 2003, captaining the club from 1998 to 2002. He played 62 Tests for England and remains one of our greatest ever players.
