Robin Smith, a revered figure in Hampshire cricket, passed away at the age of 62 on December 1, 2025. His death occurred at his home in Perth, leaving behind a rich legacy in both Hampshire and England cricket.
Memorial Service at Winchester Cathedral
A memorial service was held in his honor at Winchester Cathedral on June 12, attended by family, friends, and teammates. The gathering was a celebration of his life and contributions to the sport.
Personal Reflections
Chris Smith, Robin’s brother, shared fond memories from their childhood, recalling countless hours spent practicing cricket together. They were not only brothers but also teammates in provincial and club cricket in South Africa, as well as at Hampshire.
Chris reflected on a significant match where they scored 114 runs together, highlighting the many cherished moments they created. He emphasized the importance of remembering these joyful memories rather than focusing on the challenges Robin faced after his playing career.
Tribute from Hampshire Cricket
Rod Bramsgrove, the Honorary Life President of Hampshire Cricket, praised Robin’s skills as a cricketer and his ability to entertain and uplift those around him. He recognized Robin as one of the greatest players to represent Hampshire, noting his impact on and off the field.
Shared Memories from Friends
Allan Lamb, who played alongside Robin, reminisced about their first encounter when Robin was a rising star. His talent earned him recognition even while breaking records set by Barry Richards. Lamb regarded Robin as an exceptional player, particularly when facing fast bowlers.
Robin’s legacy continued to resonate among attendees, including prominent cricketers like Alec Stewart, Gladstone Small, David Gower, and Mike Gatting. During the memorial, tributes were delivered by Chris Smith and Mark Nicholas, emphasizing Robin’s influence on the cricketing community.
