Ben: Robin's death hit us harder after Ashes talk

ENGLAND captain Ben Stokes says the death of Robin Smith “hits harder” after the former batter connected with the tourists in Perth just days ago.

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Smith, who played 62 Tests and 71 ODIs for England, died this week at the age of 62.

The powerful right-hander, an outstanding player of fast bowling, had been a guest at the first Ashes Test and also met the England Lions, having been invited by coach Andrew Flintoff.