The former England cricketer Robin Smith has died at the age of 62, his former teammate Kevan James has announced.
James shared the news on Solent News this morning (Tuesday, December 2) after playing with him for Hampshire in the late 1980s and early 1990s.
The former international batsman is thought to have passed away overnight in Australia.
Smith was born in Durban, South Africa, and grew up there before moving to England.
VERY SAD NEWS- Robin Smith has passed away overnight in Australia. He was one of England best Batters in the 80's & 90's @hantscricket pic.twitter.com/5vVSR7JaUq
— BBC Radio Solent Sport (@solentsport) December 2, 2025
He played 62 tests for his adopted England between his debut in 1988 and his final game, in his native South Africa in January 1996.
His unbeaten 167 in a one-day international against Australia at Edgbaston has been highlighted among England’s greatest limited-overs innings.
Nicknamed Judge or Judgie for his resemblance to a judge when he grew his hair long, he was also known for his ferocious square-cut.
Fans pay tribute to 'hero' Robin Smith
Many fans took to X to pay tribute to Robin, with many recalling fond memories of their childhood when they saw him play.
One of the best Square Cutters ever produced by the game , Robin Smith is no more ..
You will be remembered as one of English batting greats !
Robin Smith (1963 - 2025 )pic.twitter.com/6NGCzPSZfh— Encrypted Layman 🍁 (@FreddieFaizaan) December 2, 2025
One wrote: "Played the greatest ever odi innings vs Australia imo in 1993. Absolutely gutted by this."
Another shared: "They say never meet your heroes but this was different. A true Hampshire great loved by all and inspiring to so many. RIP the judge - Heaven welcomes that square cut."
A third said: "Favourite batsman of all time and my absolute hero as a youngster. So many great memories of him.
"I remember I was meant to be revising for exams, but I sneaked down to watch his 167 vs Aussie in 93."
Meanwhile, another commented: "RIP Judge. My hero watching Hampshire in the 80s and 90s."
One shared: "Awful news, my favourite batsman growing up - one of the finest exponents of the cut shot around."
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