Herbie Smith (cricketer)

Herbert "Herbie" Smith (1879-1951) was a South African cricketer who played in 7 Test matches between 1906 and 1912. A right-arm fast-medium bowler and useful lower-order batsman, Smith was renowned for his pace and accuracy.

Born in Grahamstown, Cape Colony, Smith made his first-class debut for Eastern Province in 1902. His consistent performances led to his selection for the South African Test team. He is best remembered for his performance in the 1906 series against England, where he took 13 wickets in the second Test at Johannesburg, including 7 in the first innings. This remains one of the best bowling performances by a South African in Test cricket.

Smith's career was curtailed by injury and business commitments. He toured England with the South African team in 1912, playing in his final Test match that year. After retiring from cricket, he worked in the insurance industry. He died in Johannesburg in 1951. His brother, Claude Smith, also played first-class cricket.