New Delhi, Dec 2 (NationPress) Former England cricketer Robin Arnold Smith, celebrated as one of the finest players against fast bowling in England's history, has tragically passed away at the age of 62 in Perth, Australia. Smith, affectionately nicknamed 'The Judge', was found deceased in his South Perth residence on Monday, as confirmed by his family. The cause of his unexpected death remains undetermined for now.

The England & Wales Cricket Board expressed its sorrow, stating, "Everyone at the ECB is profoundly saddened by the news of Robin Smith's passing. He was a legend for both England and Hampshire. Rest in peace, Judge," in a post on X.

Throughout his illustrious career, Smith participated in 62 Test matches and 71 ODIs, accumulating over 6,500 runs, which includes 4,236 runs in Tests with nine centuries. He concluded his Test career with an impressive average of 43.67 and was a part of the England team that reached the final of the 1992 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup against Pakistan.

In a heartfelt statement, Smith's family shared, "With profound sadness, we announce the passing of Robin Arnold Smith, a beloved father to Harrison and Margaux, and a cherished brother to Christopher..."

"A daring and talented batsman, he made a significant mark for both Hampshire and England, winning many admirers and friends along the journey. This is an incredibly challenging time for us as we navigate our grief, and we kindly request privacy from the media and cricket fans alike."

Post-retirement in 2004, Smith faced documented struggles with alcohol and mental health, but his family hopes these issues will not fuel speculation about the cause of his death, which will be clarified during the postmortem investigation.

Born in Durban, South Africa, Smith relocated to England to represent Hampshire, where he played for over 21 years from 1982 to 2003, serving as captain from 1998 to 2002.

During his tenure at Hampshire, he played more than 300 first-class matches, amassing 18,984 runs with a top score of 209 not out, maintaining an average of 42.09. He also participated in 347 List A matches for Hampshire, achieving over 12,000 runs at an average of 42.97.

Known as 'The Judge', Smith represented Hampshire over 600 times, scoring in excess of 30,000 runs for the club during a career that spanned more than two decades. Hampshire Cricket expressed their condolences on X, stating, "Our thoughts are with his family and friends during this tough time."

He exited the cricket scene at 40, with a remarkable count of 18,984 county runs and a legacy as a Hampshire icon.

ECB Chair Richard Thompson remarked, "Robin Smith faced some of the fastest bowlers in the world with a resilient smile and remarkable courage. He brought immense pride and entertainment to England fans.

"He was a pioneer in batting, exemplified by his unforgettable unbeaten 167 from 163 balls in an ODI against Australia at Edgbaston in 1993.

His record at Hampshire is outstanding, and he will rightly be remembered as a great of Hampshire CCC. We are deeply saddened by his loss, and our thoughts are with his friends, family, and loved ones."