Hampshire And England Cricket Great Robin Smith Dies Aged 62
- Dominic Kureen
- 7 minutes ago
- 2 min read
Hampshire Cricket legend Robin Smith — affectionately known throughout the sport as “The Judge” — has passed away at the age of 62.
His family confirmed the news on Monday 1 December 2025.
Tributes have poured in from across the cricketing world for a player remembered as both a fearless competitor and a warm, charismatic presence.
Smith spent more than two decades with Hampshire, representing the county from 1982 to 2003 and captaining the side between 1998 and 2002.
A masterful batter with immense power, he played over 300 First-Class matches for Hampshire, scoring 18,984 runs at an average of 42.09, including a top score of 209 not out.
In List A cricket he was equally prolific, making more than 12,000 runs in 347 appearances.
Beyond his remarkable county career, Smith became one of England’s most admired cricketers of the 1990s.
Known for his courage at the crease and his iconic square cut, he earned 62 Test caps and scored 4,236 runs for his country.
Among his most iconic performances were his unforgettable innings against the West Indies, widely regarded as one of the most fearsome bowling attacks in cricket history.
Smith met their pace with grit, skill and determination, famously producing a superb 148 not out — a display still celebrated by fans for its bravery and brilliance.
At the Utilita Bowl, Smith’s legacy is permanently marked by the Robin Smith Suite, located in the pavilion end of the ground. Hampshire Cricket has said further plans to honour him will be announced in due course.
Rod Bransgrove OBE, Hampshire Cricket’s Group Chairman, described Smith as “one of the greatest, if not the greatest, of all time Hampshire Cricket heroes.”
“He was a batsman of awesome power and control and amongst the most courageous players this club has ever seen — especially against bowling of real pace,” he said.
“More than anything, The Judge connected with everyone he came into contact with.
"He was one of the most popular players ever to play the game we all love.”
Bransgrove added that Smith was also a close personal friend, saying he and his family were “devastated” by the loss.
Smith’s family released a statement expressing their deep sadness and requesting privacy as they come to terms with their bereavement.
They described him as a beloved father to Harrison and Margaux and a cherished brother to Christopher.
“Robin rose to fame as one of England’s most charismatic and popular players,” they said.
“A brave and dashing batsman, he excelled both for Hampshire and his adopted country, collecting legions of admirers and friends along the way.”
Hampshire Cricket, supporters and the wider cricketing community continue to pay tribute to a player whose courage, character and talent made him a true sporting icon.
You can read Sky News' tribute to the great cricketer here: