Former England cricket star Robin Smith has tragically died at the age of 62, leaving fans and the cricketing world in utter disbelief. This heartbreaking news has been confirmed by his family, who revealed that Smith passed away unexpectedly at his South Perth apartment, with the cause of death still a mystery.

Robin Smith was no ordinary cricketer. With a remarkable career spanning from 1988 to 1996, he played 62 Test matches and 71 one-day internationals, making a name for himself as a key player in England’s illustrious cricketing history. He was a vital part of the England squad that reached the final of the 1992 Cricket World Cup, a monumental achievement that many still rave about today.

The Smith family, in a public statement dripping with emotion, conveyed their profound sadness, stating, "It is with the deepest and most profound sense of sadness that we must announce the passing of Robin Arnold Smith." They painted a picture of a loving father and brother, amidst the chaos of an unexpected loss.

Originally hailing from Durban, South Africa, Smith made the bold move to England in 1983 to play for Hampshire, where he would go on to become a cricketing icon. Retiring in 2000, he left behind a staggering 18,984 runs in county cricket,a statistic that cements his status as a Hampshire legend. Rod Bransgrove, Hampshire's chair, didn't hold back in his praise, declaring Smith "one of the greatest, if not the greatest, of all time Hampshire Cricket heroes.”

Smith debuted for England five years after joining Hampshire and quickly became a household name. His Test cricket average of 43.67 is a testament to his prowess, marked by 28 fifties and 9 centuries, including a jaw-dropping 175 against the West Indies in 1994. This match was nothing short of a spectacle, highlighting his skill against one of the fiercest bowling attacks of the time.

Known affectionately as 'The Judge', Smith’s one-day international record of 167 not out against Australia in 1993 stood unchallenged for 23 years until Alex Hales finally broke it in 2016. His aggressive batting style and infamous square cut shot made him a fan favorite, as well as a nightmare for bowlers everywhere.

Richard Thompson, chair of the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), echoed the sentiments of many as he paid tribute to Smith, stating, "Robin Smith was a player who stood toe to toe with some of the quickest bowlers in the world.” He emphasized how Smith’s performances instilled immense pride in England fans and delivered entertainment like no other.

However, it's worth noting that Smith’s later years were marred by personal challenges, including mental health struggles and alcohol addiction. His family has urged the media to steer clear of speculation regarding the cause of his death, emphasizing the need for privacy during this excruciating time. They requested understanding from both the media and cricket followers alike, as they navigate through their grief.

Robin Smith’s legacy extends far beyond his impressive statistics and unforgettable performances. He leaves behind a lasting impression on cricket fans and fellow players alike, ensuring that his contributions to the sport will be forever remembered, albeit now under a cloud of tragedy and loss.