Tom Jones Tikolo, born on 24 October 1961, is a notable figure in Kenyan cricket, known for his contributions both as a player and in administrative roles. Here are some key points about his career:
- Playing Career:
- Tikolo was primarily known as a batting all-rounder who played for the Swamibapa Cricket Club locally in Kenya.
- He captained the Kenya cricket team in 22 ICC Trophy games, which was the most by any player at that time.
- Despite his leadership role, Tikolo played in only one first-class match but performed impressively, scoring 79 runs in one innings.
- Administrative Roles:
- After retiring from playing cricket, Tikolo transitioned into cricket administration.
- In 2005, he was appointed as the CEO of Cricket Kenya, marking a significant step in his administrative career.
- He also served as a national selector, contributing to the development and strategic direction of Kenyan cricket.
- Historical Significance:
- Tikolo holds the distinction of being the youngest captain of the Kenya cricket team when he was appointed in 1986 at the age of 24.
- He was also the first African player to captain the Kenyan team, which had previously been led by players of European or Indian descent.
- Family Ties:
- Tikolo comes from a family with a strong cricketing background. He is the brother of David Tikolo and Steve Tikolo, both of whom were also prominent cricketers for Kenya.
Tom Jones Tikolo’s career highlights his commitment to Kenyan cricket both on and off the field, contributing significantly to the sport’s development and growth in the country. His leadership as captain and later as an administrator left a lasting impact on the cricketing landscape in Kenya.
