Author: Timor Leste Cricket Board

  • Cricket Training Series Continues to Flourish with Immersive Session at Cribas School, Manatuto

    Cricket Training Series Continues to Flourish with Immersive Session at Cribas School, Manatuto

    CRIBAS, MANATUTO — In continuation of its aggressive youth development campaign across the districts, the Timor-Leste Cricket Board (TLCB) successfully conducted a targeted youth training session today, Wednesday, June 10, 2026, at the local school in Cribas, Manatuto.

    The high-energy event forms a key part of the board’s ongoing nationwide training series designed to lock in the growing momentum established during initial exhibition matches earlier this season.

    Refining Skills at the Grassroots

    Moving past basic introductions, today’s training module gave local school students a more comprehensive look into structured cricket tactics. TLCB development officers and regional facilitators divided the enthusiastic students into specialized, rotating groups focused on expanding their physical fitness and hand-eye coordination.

    Key Highlights of the Session:

    • Strategic Venue: Hosted on-site at the school in Cribas, Manatuto, on June 10, 2026.
    • Targeted Curriculum: Advanced instruction on batting grip, directional hitting, and bowling arm positioning.
    • Continuing Education: Part of a structured, multi-week training pipeline deployed by the national board.
    Featured Image Cirbus School

    Solidifying the Sport Outside Dili

    By maintaining a consistent presence in Cribas, the Timor-Leste Cricket Board is proving that its regional expansion goals are built on sustainability rather than one-off events. Local educators heavily praised the coaching staff for bringing structured physical activity back to the school ground, emphasizing how well the teamwork and discipline of cricket translate into the classroom.

    The natural athletic instincts of the Cribas youth were on full display during the afternoon’s match simulations, with coaches noting significant improvement in game awareness compared to last month’s preliminary drills.

    “We promised the community of Manatuto that our first visit was just the beginning,” a TLCB development official noted at the conclusion of the session. “Returning to Cribas School allows us to monitor individual player growth and keep these kids actively engaged. This ongoing training series is precisely how we discover the future national team stars who will one day proudly wear our country’s colors.”

    As the training series rolls forward into the winter months, the TLCB plans to expand its school-based network even further, ensuring cricket equipment and professional guidance remain accessible to youth across the country.

    For schedule updates on the next stops in the TLCB Regional Training Series, visit the official hub at tlcb.net.

  • Oceans of Joy as Massive Crowds of School Children Flood 3rd Edition of Criiio Cup at Centro Shallom Bebonuk

    Oceans of Joy as Massive Crowds of School Children Flood 3rd Edition of Criiio Cup at Centro Shallom Bebonuk

    BEBONUK, DILI — The fields of Eskola Centro Shallom Bebonuk were transformed into a sea of vibrant energy on Saturday, May 30, 2026, as the Timor-Leste Cricket Board (TLCB) proudly hosted the highly anticipated 3rd Edition of the Criiio Cup.

    Building on the foundation laid by previous tournaments, this year’s landmark event proved to be a spectacular celebration of youth sports, community, and the unstoppable growth of cricket across the nation.

    A Spectacular Turnout of Passionate Youth

    From early morning, an overwhelming wave of enthusiastic boys and girls packed the venue, creating an electric atmosphere filled with non-stop cheering and laughter. The scale of participation was a breathtaking sight, with children from all backgrounds stepping onto the pitch to embrace the “Criiio” spirit.

    Rather than focusing on numbers, the true story of the day was written in the sheer density of the crowd—a massive assembly of young Timorese athletes waiting eagerly for their turn at the crease, showcasing an unprecedented level of interest in the sport.

    Schools Unite Across the District

    The 3rd Edition achieved its massive scale thanks to an incredible cross-school collaboration. A wide network of different primary and secondary schools from across Dili and surrounding areas rallied together, sending large delegations of students to participate.

    The camaraderie between the different school institutions was a major highlight, as rivalries were set aside in favor of shared learning, teamwork, and mutual respect under the guidance of TLCB coaches and facilitators.

    Unleashing the Cricket Spirit

    The festival kept the endless crowds of children constantly engaged with a variety of specialized mini-games, high-energy batting drills, and fast-paced matches. Because the “Criiio” format relies on accessible, user-friendly equipment, every child present—regardless of prior experience—got the opportunity to feel the thrill of hitting a ball or taking a wicket.

    “Seeing this venue completely overflow with joyful children from so many different schools is a historic moment for us,” noted a senior TLCB coordinator at the close of the day. “The 3rd Edition of the Criiio Cup has shattered all expectations. It proves that cricket is no longer just being introduced to Timor-Leste—it is being passionately claimed by the next generation.”

    As the sun set over Bebonuk, the echoing cheers of the massive crowd left no doubt that the annual Criiio Cup has solidified its place as one of the most beloved and impactful youth sporting events in the country.

    To find out if your school participated and to view our extensive photo galleries of the day, visit the official home of Timorese cricket at tlcb.net.

  • Subject: High-Energy Training Camp at Escola Nicolau Lobato Solidifies Cricket’s Growth in Dili

    Subject: High-Energy Training Camp at Escola Nicolau Lobato Solidifies Cricket’s Growth in Dili

    DILI, TIMOR-LESTE — On Friday, May 29, 2026, the Timor-Leste Cricket Board (TLCB) successfully hosted a dynamic youth cricket training camp at the prominent Escola Nicolau Lobato in the nation’s capital.

    Coming hot on the heels of yesterday’s community clinic in Bebonuk, this school-based camp marks a critical step forward in the TLCB’s ongoing mission to integrate cricket into the formal educational and physical education structures of Timor-Leste.

    Students Embrace the Game

    The sports fields of Escola Nicolau Lobato were transformed into vibrant training ground zones as a large, enthusiastic contingent of both boys and girls stepped up to participate. The program focused on giving students an immersive, hands-on experience, moving quickly from basic rule overviews into active gameplay.

    Camp Highlights:

    • Premier Location: Hosted at Escola Nicolau Lobato, Dili, on May 29, 2026.
    • Mass Participation: High turnout of passionate male and female students representing various grade levels.
    • Intensive Modules: Professional coaching split into stations for progressive batting stance, bowling accuracy, and rapid reflexes during fielding.

    Building Strategic School Partnerships

    By bringing international-standard grassroots training directly into schools like Escola Nicolau Lobato, the Timor-Leste Cricket Board is building sustainable pathways for youth sports development. School administrators and teachers heavily supported the initiative, noting that the discipline, strategic thinking, and teamwork required in cricket perfectly align with student development goals.

    TLCB development officers were highly impressed by the raw athletic capability and focus demonstrated by the students throughout the day, with several standouts already earmarked for advanced regional tracking.

    “Escola Nicolau Lobato has shown fantastic energy today,” a TLCB Head Coach remarked at the close of the camp. “Partnering directly with schools allows us to introduce the game to hundreds of children in a structured environment. The passion we witnessed today assures us that the foundation we are laying in Dili is incredibly strong.”

    As the month of May wraps up with record-breaking youth participation across the districts and capital, the Timor-Leste Cricket Board continues to prove that cricket is rapidly becoming one of the most exciting new chapters in the nation’s sporting history.

    For student registration details and the upcoming June school tournament schedule, stay tuned to tlcb.net.

  • Cricket Expansion Continues: TLCB Introduces the Sport to Youth in Bebonuk, Dom Aleixo

    Cricket Expansion Continues: TLCB Introduces the Sport to Youth in Bebonuk, Dom Aleixo

    BEBONUK, DILI — The Timor-Leste Cricket Board (TLCB) carried its national grassroots momentum into the Dom Aleixo administrative post on Thursday, May 28, 2026, hosting a specialized cricket introduction and training session in the vibrant community of Bebonuk.

    The event marked another significant step forward in the board’s strategic efforts to embed cricket into suburban communities across the capital district, tapping into a fresh wave of athletic talent.

    Igniting a New Passion

    The training session specifically targeted local school children and teenagers, drawing a passionate group of both boys and girls eager to learn a new sport. For the vast majority of the young participants, the afternoon provided their very first encounter with cricket equipment, safety gear, and the basic rules of the game.

    Session Highlights:

    • Targeted Outreach: Held in Bebonuk, Dom Aleixo, Dili, on May 28, 2026.
    • Inclusive Training: Equal participation from passionate young boys and girls.
    • Core Fundamentals: Interactive modules focused on the joy of hitting the ball (batting), hitting the wickets (bowling), and active fielding drills.

    From First Hits to Future Heroes

    Led by a dedicated team of TLCB development officers, the session was structured around fast-paced, high-energy games to keep the atmosphere fun and engaging. The coaches focused heavily on hand-eye coordination and teamwork, ensuring that every child walked away with a foundational understanding of the sport.

    The response from the Bebonuk youth was overwhelmingly positive, with many showing an immediate flair for batting and a strong desire for more regular playing opportunities.

    “Dom Aleixo is one of the most densely populated and energetic areas in Dili, making Bebonuk a crucial focus for us,” noted a TLCB official at the conclusion of the event. “The passion these boys and girls displayed today proves that the appetite for cricket is growing rapidly. We are committed to returning here with more equipment and structured programs.”

    By continually expanding these local training sessions, the Timor-Leste Cricket Board is successfully broadening its talent pool while providing community youth with positive, health-focused recreational outlets.

  • Cricket Training Camp Sparks Sporting Revolution in Cribas: 200 Boys and Girls Take the Field

    Cricket Training Camp Sparks Sporting Revolution in Cribas: 200 Boys and Girls Take the Field

    CRIBAS, MANATUTO — Following the highly successful exhibition match earlier this month, Cricket Timor-Leste (TLCB) has officially shifted into high gear with a massive Cricket Training Camp right here in the Cribas region of Manatuto.

    The initiative has drawn an overwhelming response from the community, with approximately 200 passionate boys and girls stepping onto the pitch to develop their skills and embrace the spirit of the sport.

    An Inclusive Grassroots Movement

    The training camp stands out for its incredible turnout and inclusivity, bringing together male and female youth from various local schools and villages. For many of the participants, this intensive camp represents their first structured introduction to the game, providing professional guidance on batting, bowling, and fielding fundamentals.

    Key Highlights of the Training Camp:

    • Massive Turnout: Around 200 young Timorese boys and girls actively participating.
    • Skill Development: Focused coaching sessions on batting stance, bowling actions, and teamwork.
    • Regional Expansion: Building on TLCB’s strategic mission to grow cricket beyond the capital city of Dili.

    Shaping the Future of Timorese Cricket

    Under the close supervision of qualified TLCB development officers and facilitators, the camp is designed to transform initial curiosity into long-term athletic passion. The energy on the field has been electric, as the children master the basics and showcase the natural athletic talent that the board hopes to nurture for future national youth squads.

    “The enthusiasm we are seeing in Cribas is proof that cricket is capturing the imagination of our youth across the districts,” a TLCB media representative stated. “With 200 children training hard every day, Manatuto is quickly positioning itself as a major hub for the future of the sport in Timor-Leste.”

    The success of this camp further underscores the Timor-Leste Cricket Board’s commitment to building a sustainable cricket pipeline from the grassroots up, ensuring that every child has a platform to play, grow, and excel.

    Follow the camp’s progress and view our media gallery at tlcb.net.

  • Cricket Makes Historic Debut in Cribas, Manatuto: TLCB Inspires Over 100 Young Students

    Cricket Makes Historic Debut in Cribas, Manatuto: TLCB Inspires Over 100 Young Students

    CRIBAS, MANATUTO — In a landmark move for sports development in the region, Cricket Timor-Leste (TLCB) officially introduced the game of cricket to the community of Cribas, Manatuto, on May 11, 2026. The exhibition program marked the first time the sport has been formally showcased in this part of the country, drawing an enthusiastic crowd and high-level local support.

    A Community-Wide Celebration

    The event was a collaborative success, attended by approximately 170 people. The program saw a strong turnout from:

    • Local Administrators & Government Officials: Lending their support to the diversification of Timorese youth sports.
    • Educational Leaders: Multiple schools participated, recognizing the teamwork and discipline the sport promotes.
    • Community Members: Families gathered to witness the demonstration of a sport rapidly gaining traction across the nation.
    Cribe Manatuto Featured Image

    The Next Generation of Batters

    The heart of the activity focused on 106 young Timorese students. For many of these children, the exhibition provided their very first opportunity to pick up a cricket bat and experience the thrill of the game firsthand. The TLCB coaching staff noted a “strong and immediate interest” from the students, many of whom displayed natural talent during the batting drills.

    Leading the Charge

    The delegation from Cricket Timor-Leste was led by the General Secretary and the Development Officer, supported by a team of six dedicated facilitators. Together, they worked to promote the fundamentals of cricket and explain the long-term vision of the TLCB to the residents of Cribas.

    “Bringing cricket to Manatuto is a key part of our national expansion strategy,” said a TLCB representative. “Seeing 106 students step up to the crease for the first time today proves that the passion for this game exists everywhere in Timor-Leste—it just needs a platform.”

    This exhibition in Cribas serves as a blueprint for future regional outreach as the Timor-Leste Cricket Board continues its mission to make cricket a truly national sport.


    Stay updated on our journey across the districts at tlcb.net.

  • 240 Students Gather in Dili as 160 Compete in Annual Criiio Cup

    240 Students Gather in Dili as 160 Compete in Annual Criiio Cup

    DILI, TIMOR-LESTE — The future of Timorese sport was on full display yesterday, May 8, 2026, as the Timor-Leste Cricket Board (TLCB) hosted its latest “Criiio Cup” festival at the heart of the capital city.

    Building on the annual tradition established in 2025, this year’s event saw a massive turnout of enthusiastic school children, marking a significant milestone in the TLCB’s mission to integrate cricket into the national culture.

    Youth Participation Reaches New Heights

    The festival brought together a diverse group of 240 boys and girls from various local schools, highlighting the inclusive nature of the “Criiio” format. Of these participants, 160 students took active part in structured matches and specialized skill-based games designed to test their agility, teamwork, and budding cricket techniques.

    Criiio Cup 2026 Featured Image 1

    Highlights of the Day:

    • Mass Engagement: 240 school kids registered for the day’s activities.
    • Active Competition: 160 participants competed in high-energy games and drills.
    • Equality in Sport: The event featured a strong balance of both male and female student-athletes.
    • Date of Event: Friday, May 8, 2026.

    Strengthening the Grassroots

    As the official host and organizer, the Timor-Leste Cricket Board continues to use the Criiio Cup as its primary vehicle for grassroots development. By engaging hundreds of children in a single day, the board is effectively building the foundation for the National Cricket Academy (NCA) and identifying the next generation of talent to represent the “Crocodiles” on the international stage.

    The energy on the field remained electric from start to finish, with local educators and board officials praising the discipline and joy shown by the young participants. Following the success of this May 8th event, the TLCB has reaffirmed its commitment to keeping the Criiio Cup a permanent, annual fixture for the youth of Dili.


    For more photos and a full list of participating schools, visit the official board website at tlcb.net.

    Criiio Cup 2026
  • Annual Criiio Cup: Empowering Timor-Leste’s Youth through Cricket since 2025

    Annual Criiio Cup: Empowering Timor-Leste’s Youth through Cricket since 2025

    DILI, TIMOR-LESTE — The roar of excitement and the sound of willow hitting leather have returned to the capital as the Timor-Leste Cricket Board (TLCB) kicks off the latest edition of the “Criiio Cup.”

    Now established as a cornerstone of the national sporting calendar, the Criiio Cup is a grassroots cricket festival specifically designed to introduce the joy of the game to children across Timor-Leste. By utilizing the ICC’s “Criiio” format—which emphasizes flexibility and fun using any bat, any ball, and any playing surface—the TLCB is successfully breaking down barriers to entry for the next generation of “Crocodiles.”

    Criiio Cup 2026 Featured Image

    A Legacy of Growth

    The journey began in 2025, when the TLCB organized the inaugural event shortly after the country gained official status within the international cricket community. What started as a bold pilot program has now blossomed into an annual tradition that children across Dili and surrounding districts look forward to every year.

    Event Highlights:

    • Youth Focus: The tournament is exclusively for children, focusing on participation, teamwork, and physical fitness.
    • Grassroots Development: The event serves as the primary scouting ground for the National Cricket Academy (NCA).
    • Community Impact: Beyond the boundaries, the festival brings families together, fostering a vibrant new sports culture in a nation traditionally dominated by football.

    A Word from the Board

    Organizers at the Timor-Leste Cricket Board emphasized that the Criiio Cup is about more than just finding elite talent; it’s about providing a safe and energetic environment for children to learn the values of sportsmanship.

    “Since that first successful event in 2025, our mission has been consistency,” a board spokesperson noted. “By hosting this cup every year, we ensure that cricket isn’t just a one-time curiosity, but a permanent part of Timorese childhood.”

    As the matches continue throughout the week, the energy in Dili remains high. With the sun setting over the pitch and hundreds of children cheering on their peers, it is clear that the future of cricket in Timor-Leste is brighter than ever.

  • TLCB News: Anticipation Builds for the Inaugural Men’s “Timor-Leste Super League”

    TLCB News: Anticipation Builds for the Inaugural Men’s “Timor-Leste Super League”

    DILI, TIMOR-LESTE – In a move set to electrify the nation’s burgeoning sports scene, the Timor-Leste Cricket Board (TLCB) has officially confirmed that the inaugural Men’s “Timor-Leste Super League” is on the horizon.

    Following the country’s historic entry as an Associate Member of the International Cricket Council (ICC) in 2025, the TLCB is now shifting its focus toward high-performance domestic competition. This new “Super League” represents a major step forward for the “Crocodiles,” the national team, as they look to build on their recent international debut and climb the world rankings.

    Timor-Leste Super League 2026 Featured Image

    Key Details at a Glance:

    • Official League Name: Timor-Leste Super League.
    • Format: Men’s Elite Cricket.
    • Host Organization: Timor-Leste Cricket Board (TLCB) via their official platform at tlcb.net.
    • Status of Dates: Dates have not yet been finalized by the TLCB.
    • Official Update: Official scheduling and team rosters are expected to be announced very soon via the board’s official website.

    This announcement comes on the heels of several major milestones for the federation, including the successful completion of Phase 1 of the National Cricket Academy (NCA) and a growing roster of domestic tournaments like the Rising Timor Cricket League (RTCL).

    Cricket fans across the country and the wider East Asia-Pacific region are encouraged to keep a close watch on tlcb.net for the latest breaking news regarding match fixtures and venue details.