Robin Smith: The Judge Who Stood Tall In The Ashes
A masterful batter whose courage defined Ashes series and cemented his place in Hampshire & England history.
Words: Brad Taylor
I spoke to Joe Weatherley about his experiences abroad and the winter as a cricketer. Last winter was his third away in Australia, where he featured for Ian Holland’s boyhood club Ringwood after intiially featuring for Woodville in Adelaide for the two seasons prior to 2019.
“I had a few good performances for Woodville, including a double hundred a couple years ago which was their highest individual score.
“I think going away and playing acts as pre pre-season, it’s really good to get outside and its different from the indoor school refreshing change of scenery and different challenge.”
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Joe suffered an ankle injury at an unfortunate time earlier this season after enjoying success at the top of the order and this injury was something that had a significant impact on what decision was to be made about winter plans.
“Ankle injuries can be really difficult to rehab we just want to make sure that we rehab it really well so there is no chance of further injuries after this. I’m just trying to get that right in the gym before Christmas and then getting some cricket in after the festive period to hopefully be able to hit the ground running in April."
Joe, like me, was very fortunate to be able to have the opportunity to travel the globe as a cricketer whilst being involved with Hampshire and the England age-group sides.
“Every country you experience different conditions and different pitches that can only stand you in good stead going forward as a cricketer, they are really valuable experiences and shape your game and yourself as a player too.”
Joe is heading back to Woodville after Christmas for a third time, where he will be hoping to gain some cricket under his belt to be in a good position to begin the 2020 season strongly.
The best way to catch Joe and the rest of the Hampshire squad in action all year long next season is with a 2020 Hampshire Cricket Membership and there’s never been a better time to join or renew with Early Bird and Direct Debit discounts now available.
A masterful batter whose courage defined Ashes series and cemented his place in Hampshire & England history.
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