Fans watching the 2nd Ashes Test 2025-26 at the Gabba, Brisbane noticed a special moment before the match began — players from both Australia and England walked out wearing black armbands.
This was done as a mark of respect for former England cricketer Robin Smith, who passed away earlier this week.
Tribute to Robin Smith
Before the first ball was bowled, the stadium observed a minute’s silence for Robin Smith — one of England’s most fearless and admired batters of the late 80s and 90s.
Who was Robin Smith?
- Former England & Hampshire cricketer
- Passed away in Perth on December 1, aged 62
- Known for his courage and strong batting technique
- Loved by fans and respected across the cricket world
His International Stats
| Format | Matches | Runs | Average | 100s | 50s | Highest Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tests | 62 | 4,236 | 43.67 | 9 | 28 | 175 |
| ODIs | 71 | 2,419 | — | 4 | — | — |
Smith also had a legendary domestic career with Hampshire, scoring more than 26,000 first-class runs and 61 centuries.
Just two weeks before his passing, he met the England Lions squad in Perth, motivating young players and sharing his experiences.
2nd Ashes Test: Match Context
England captain Ben Stokes won the toss and chose to bat first, hoping to bounce back after the heavy defeat in Perth.
The day-night Test began in warm Brisbane conditions with the pink ball, giving Australia’s pace-heavy attack the first real advantage.
Team Changes for the 2nd Test
Both teams made injury-forced changes ahead of the match.
Australia – Changes & Key Notes
- Usman Khawaja ruled out with a back issue
- Michael Neser replaced spinner Nathan Lyon, as the Gabba pitch favoured seam
- Josh Inglis returned to the middle order
- Travis Head continued as opener after his match-winning knock in Perth
Australia Playing XI
| Player |
|---|
| Jake Weatherald |
| Travis Head |
| Marnus Labuschagne |
| Steven Smith (C) |
| Cameron Green |
| Alex Carey |
| Josh Inglis |
| Michael Neser |
| Mitchell Starc |
| Brendan Doggett |
| Scott Boland |
England – Changes & Key Notes
- Mark Wood ruled out with a knee injury
- Will Jacks came in as replacement
- Stokes again trusted his batting unit to set up the game by choosing to bat first
England Playing XI
| Player |
|---|
| Zak Crawley |
| Ben Duckett |
| Ollie Pope |
| Joe Root |
| Harry Brook |
| Ben Stokes (C) |
| Jamie Smith |
| Will Jacks |
| Gus Atkinson |
| Brydon Carse |
| Jofra Archer |
Why the Tribute Matters
Robin Smith was not just a former England cricketer — he was a global cricketing figure admired for:
- His fearlessness against fast bowling
- His loyalty to Hampshire
- His mentoring of young players
- His sportsmanship and humility
His sudden passing has deeply affected the cricket community. The black armbands served as a simple but powerful gesture of respect.
Summary
- Both teams wore black armbands to honour Robin Smith.
- A minute’s silence was held before the match.
- Smith’s cricketing legacy includes thousands of international and domestic runs.
- The 2nd Ashes Test features major injury-related team changes and a seam-friendly Gabba pitch.
