KCB pay tribute to skipper Lilako after calling time on his trophy-laden career

KCB RFC captain Curtis Lilako has called time on his illustrious career following almost a 15-year trophy-laden spell with the Bankers.

Lilako announced his retirement on Tuesday after the conclusion of the 2022-23 15s season where the Bankers finished runners-up to Kabras Sugar in the Kenya Cup and Enterprise Cup.

The 34-year-old led KCB to five Kenya Cup titles, including four straight from 2017-2021, as well as three Enterprise Cups and as many Impala Floodlit tournament crowns, the last of which came in 2022 when they thrashed Nondescripts 20-3 in the final.

Popularly known as ‘Curtlow,’ Lilako made 38 caps for Kenya Simbas, his last match being the 31-16 victory over Zimbabwe in the Victoria Cup in Nairobi in August 2019.

Lilako was instrumental in KCB’s success with his hard work, leadership, and inspirational performances helping the Bankers to a number of trophies.

KCB paid tribute to the prop with an inspirational message, thanking him for his service and wishing him a happy retirement.

“Enjoy all you’ve got while you have it. Stay focused. Keep evolving. Follow your heart. Rise above negativity. Love more and stress less. Enjoy your retirement Le Skip and thank you for your service,” the club said.

Lilakao’s hopes to leave as a winner went up in smoke when KCB lost 19-9 to Kabras in the Kenya Cup playoff final in March with the Kakamega-based side retaining their title before the two faced off yet again in the Enterprise Cup final in April, a tie the Bankers lost 9-6.

His exit leaves a big hole for KCB who will need leaders in the team next season as they aim to reclaim the titles that have eluded them in the last two years.