I want to share a story about a true legend, a man who left an indelible mark on the cricket world and my life. Robin Smith, or 'the Judge', was more than just a hero to me; he was a friend, and his passing has left a void that's hard to fill.
You might have heard the saying, 'never meet your heroes', but let me tell you, it doesn't apply here. Robin Smith was an exception to that rule. As a young cricketer, he was my idol, and the respect and admiration only grew when I had the honor of playing against him and, eventually, becoming friends.
What's truly shocking and painful about the Judge's passing is the timing. He was full of life and energy just a short while ago. He attended the first Ashes Test in Perth, his adopted hometown, and spent time with old friends from England and around the globe. I was fortunate to spend an hour with him, chatting casually at the commentary box. Everyone who saw him that day agreed he was in top form, glowing with health and vitality. It's hard to believe he's gone so soon after that joyful reunion.
Our paths didn't cross much during our England careers, but I had the privilege of knowing him from a young age. As a kid, I performed 12th-man duties for England a few times at Headingley and Trent Bridge, and Robin Smith was the player who left a lasting impression. He was incredibly humble and kind to the young guys, throwing balls our way at the end of the day and offering friendly advice. It was a thrill to play against him in county cricket.
I recall a match at Headingley when his Hampshire team visited, and the post-match pints we shared at the Three Horseshoes pub. Another memorable moment was our trip to the old ground in Southampton. Anthony McGrath and I, as young players finding our way, arrived early one morning and watched Judgie (as we fondly called him) and his dad, John, hit balls in the nets. Judgie, then the Hampshire captain and nearing the end of his career, still maintained an impressive work ethic. Mags and I stood in awe, trying to absorb as much as we could. Although neither of us performed well in that game, Robin's positive feedback made us feel like we could conquer the world. Not many senior county professionals would be so kind to young players, but that was the Judge's way.
We all tried to emulate Judgie's cut shot, a stroke of pure beauty. I didn't master it, but his big drives and fearless approach to facing the West Indies without a grill were inspiring. He ducked, swayed, hooked, and took blows to the body with grace and determination. Robin Smith was one of England's best ever against pace bowling.
The Judge's legacy is not just about his batting prowess; it's about the way he treated people and made them feel. The tributes pouring in from all over the world are a testament to his character. He transcended national allegiances with his kindness and strength, treating everyone, young and old, with the same respect. He could captivate a room and was a brilliant storyteller. His double act with Allan Lamb must have been something else, and I can only imagine the mischief those two got up to on tour!
It breaks my heart to think of the many talented cricketers I played with, against, or looked up to, who have been taken from us so suddenly in recent years. Judgie was close to Shane Warne, and we've also lost Andrew Symonds, Graham Thorpe, and others. It's a tragedy, but I like to think they're having one hell of a party wherever they are now.
And this is the part most people miss: it's not just about the talent on the field. It's about the impact these individuals have on others, the memories they leave behind, and the inspiration they provide. Robin Smith, the Judge, was a true gentleman and a legend in every sense of the word. His legacy will live on, not just in the records, but in the hearts and minds of those whose lives he touched.
