Top scorer for CR and FC by way of kicks at goal in the concluded Dialog League rugby tournament, Rizah Mubarak, has announced his retirement to bring to an end a career that spanned 13 years.
Mubarak finished with 50 points and started his rugby career at Isipathana College as a full back in 2005.
He was quick to rise to be a promising player with his reliable place kicking that caught the eye of several clubs. CR and FC was the first club to employ him as their reliable full back.
He also finished his career at this club after being benched for several matches this season.
He went on to play for Navy SC, Police SC and Havelock SC and was also selected to play for the national team for many years.
He was also named as the ‘Most Valuable Player’ at the Asia Five Nations tournament in 2013.
“Now that I have decided to hang up my boots I realized that it is not about the trophies I’ve won but the friendships I made.
“Enjoy the game and stay humble. Don’t lose yourself in the midst of successes,” said Rizah at his farewell message.
Current CR captain Omalka Gunaratne said of Mubarak: “He was always a role model and a hero from my school days at Isipathana and I consider myself lucky and honoured to have played with Rizah.”