DILI, TIMOR-LESTE — In a major milestone for the growth of local sports, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has officially recognized the development of women’s cricket in Timor-Leste. A special video spotlight highlighting the country’s recent celebrations for “ICC Women’s Cricket Week” has been uploaded to the official global ICC website.
The feature, published during the ongoing 2026 ICC Women’s T20 World Cup global celebrations, showcases how the sport is taking root across diverse communities. The video captures the immense passion, energy, and talent of young Timorese girls and women discovering the game through the ICC’s grassroots criiio program.
This global spotlight stands as a testament to the hard work of the Timor-Leste Cricket Board (TLCB), which has been pushing to make cricket accessible to every citizen. From its humble roots of children playing with handmade cardboard bats to structured tournaments like the Women’s Empowerment Cricket League (WECL), the progress has caught the eye of cricket’s highest governing body.
“Seeing our players recognized on the official ICC platform is an incredibly proud moment for TLCB and the entire nation,” a board representative shared. “It proves that despite our current infrastructure challenges, the unbreakable spirit of our athletes is shining through on the world stage.”
The recognition comes at a perfect time as TLCB continues its mission to establish the country’s first international-standard National Cricket Academy in Liquiçá. For fans and supporters eager to see the visual journey of how cricket is transforming lives across our districts, the full feature is available to watch under the global spotlight on the ICC website.
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.
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.
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.”
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.
DILI, TIMOR-LESTE – The Timor-Leste Cricket Board (TLCB) is thrilled to announce a major milestone in the development of the sport within our nation. Construction of the National Cricket Academy (NCA) office has officially reached its first significant breakthrough, marking a new era for aspiring athletes across the country.
The project, which aims to centralize training, education, and administration, has successfully completed its initial structural phase. This development provides a dedicated space for the growth of cricket, ensuring that both the infrastructure and the talent of Timor-Leste have a place to call home.
In a statement following the site inspection, Dr. Muhammad Tayyeb Javed, Chairman of Cricket Timor-Leste, expressed his gratitude and shared the vision for this new facility:
“We are happy to inform everyone that the first phase of NCA has been successfully completed. We now have two container rooms ready to accommodate young Timorese boys and girls, where they will receive education, learn skills, and play cricket at this facility. This center is open for all cricket lovers to visit and support. I am truly thankful once again to all Cricket Timor-Leste supporters, friends, and cricket lovers. Without all of you, this would not have been possible. Next phase coming soon, InshaAllah. Together we continue building the future of cricket in Timor-Leste.”
A Call to Our Global Cricket Family: Support the Next Phase
While we celebrate the completion of Phase 1, our journey is far from over. To transform this academy into a world-class training ground, we need the continued support of our donors, partners, and the global cricket community.
Your contributions go directly toward:
Expanding training facilities for youth teams.
Providing cricket gear and educational materials for young players.
Completing the next phases of construction (InshaAllah).
Be a part of history. Every donation helps a young Timorese player step onto the pitch with confidence. Join us in building the future of cricket in Timor-Leste.
[Donate Now / Contact TLCB for Sponsorship Opportunities]
Liquica National Cricket Academy Timor-Leste Featured Image
DILI, TIMOR-LESTE – The future of Timorese cricket was on full display this week as the Timor-Leste Cricket Board (TLCB) kicked off a high-intensity training camp for the nation’s Under-19 squad. Under the sweltering Dili sun, the city’s premier practice facilities became a hub of ambition, discipline, and raw talent.
The session, led by TLCB’s coaching staff, focused on sharpening technical fundamentals while introducing advanced tactical scenarios. With an eye on upcoming regional competitions, the coaching team emphasized “game-awareness” and physical conditioning—two pillars essential for competing on the international stage.
Inside the Session
The morning began with rigorous fielding drills, where the young athletes showed remarkable agility and vocal leadership. Following the warm-ups, the squad split into specialized groups:
The Battery: Fast bowlers worked on consistent line and length, utilizing the morning moisture to find extra zip off the surface.
The Willow: Batsmen faced a mix of pace and spin, focusing on strike rotation and finding gaps in a simulated “death-overs” environment.
The Keepers: Wicket-keeping prospects underwent high-repetition glovework drills to improve reaction times.
“The energy today was infectious,” remarked a TLCB spokesperson. “These young men aren’t just playing for themselves; they are carrying the aspirations of a growing cricket nation. Seeing the improvement in their technical stance over just a few days is incredibly promising.”
Building a Cricket Culture
This training block is part of the TLCB’s broader initiative to solidify the pathway from grassroots cricket to the national senior team. By investing in the Under-19s, the board aims to build a sustainable “pipeline” of talent that can represent Timor-Leste with pride and skill.
The dedication shown by these players—many of whom travel significant distances to attend—highlights the growing passion for the sport across the country.
LIQUIÇÁ – The Timor-Leste Cricket Board (TLCB) is thrilled to announce a historic leap for the nation’s sporting landscape. Construction has officially commenced on the National Cricket Academy in Liquiçá, marking the start of a new era for cricket in the country.
The project is being spearheaded under the direct supervision of TLCB General Secretary, Mrs. Mariana Dias Ximenes. Her leadership on-site ensures that this flagship facility meets the high standards required to nurture the next generation of East Timorese talent.
A Vision for Growth and Empowerment
This academy is more than just a training ground; it represents a strategic pillar in the TLCB’s mission to professionalize the sport. By investing in world-class infrastructure, the board aims to bridge the gap between local talent and international competition.
Key Focus Areas of the New Academy:
High-Performance Training: Providing modern nets, pitches, and equipment for national squads.
Youth Development: Creating a centralized hub for scouting and coaching rising stars.
Gender Equality: A dedicated emphasis on empowering women in sport, ensuring female athletes have equal access to elite resources and coaching.
“This marks a major step forward in developing cricket infrastructure and empowering future generations,” the Board stated in an official release. “We are building a foundation where every young Timorese, especially our women, can find their place in the game.”
What’s Next?
As the foundation is laid in Liquiçá, the TLCB continues to work closely with local authorities and international partners to ensure the academy becomes a beacon of sporting excellence in Southeast Asia.
Stay tuned to TLCB.net for exclusive photos and progress reports as we build the future of Timorese cricket, one brick at a time.
Cricket Academy Liquica (1)National Cricket Academy (5)
DILI, TIMOR-LESTE — The sun beat down on the capital yesterday as the Timor-Leste Cricket Board (TLCB) wrapped up an intensive high-performance training camp, signaling a bold new chapter for the nation’s cricketing ambitions.
Following Timor-Leste’s historic admission as an ICC Associate Member in 2025, the TLCB is wasting no time. Yesterday’s session in Dili focused on sharpening the technical skills of both the Men’s and Women’s national pools as they prepare for a packed 2026 international calendar.
TOKYO, JAPAN – In a historic moment for the nation’s sporting landscape, the Chairman of the Timor-Leste Cricket Board (TLCB), Dr. Muhammad Tayyeb Javed, represented the country at the ICC East Asia-Pacific (EAP) Regional Conference 2026.
Held in the vibrant city of Tokyo from February 20 to 22, the event marked Timor-Leste’s official debut on the regional cricket stage, signaling a new era of international integration for the “Crocodiles.”
A Milestone for Timor-Leste
The International Cricket Council (ICC) officially welcomed Timor-Leste as the 12th member to attend the regional gathering. The conference, hosted by the Japan Cricket Association, brought together leaders from across the Pacific to discuss the future of the sport under the theme: “Business of Sport – Connecting Cricket with Younger Audiences.”
Speaking from Tokyo, Chairman Dr. Muhammad Tayyeb Javed emphasized the importance of this participation:
“Being part of the ICC EAP family opens doors for our youth. Our goal is to take the insights from this conference and build a sustainable cricket culture in Timor-Leste that inspires the next generation.”
Strategic Vision: Towards the 2032 Olympics
The 2026 conference focused heavily on the “road to 2032,” highlighting cricket’s inclusion in the Olympic Games. With the 2026 Asian Games and the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup EAP Qualifier 2028 on the horizon, the region is bracing for an unprecedented surge in popularity.
Key Highlights of the Conference:
Youth Engagement: Delegates explored modern, innovative approaches to making cricket more accessible to digital-savvy younger demographics.
Regional Collaboration: Mr. Javed engaged in high-level discussions with ICC Management and representatives from 11 other member nations to foster partnerships.
Sustainable Growth: The agenda focused on what must “go right” in 2026 to accelerate progress for emerging nations like Timor-Leste.
The Road Ahead
The TLCB delegation returns home with a strategic framework designed to align Timor-Leste with global standards. By focusing on grassroots development and regional cooperation, the Board aims to utilize the momentum of the 2028 World Cup Qualifiers to put Timor-Leste firmly on the cricketing map.
The ICC team and the Japan Cricket Association, led by Alex Miyaji, expressed their delight in welcoming Timor-Leste, noting that the inclusion of the 12th member strengthens the collective voice of cricket in the East Asia-Pacific region.
ICC EAST ASIA-PACIFIC REGIONAL CONFERENCE 2026ICC EAST ASIA-PACIFIC REGIONAL CONFERENCE 2026 1ICC EAST ASIA-PACIFIC REGIONAL CONFERENCE 2026 2ICC EAST ASIA-PACIFIC REGIONAL CONFERENCE 2026 3ICC EAST ASIA-PACIFIC REGIONAL CONFERENCE 2026 4ICC EAST ASIA-PACIFIC REGIONAL CONFERENCE 2026 5ICC EAST ASIA-PACIFIC REGIONAL CONFERENCE 2026 6ICC EAST ASIA-PACIFIC REGIONAL CONFERENCE 2026 7ICC EAST ASIA-PACIFIC REGIONAL CONFERENCE 2026 8
ERMERA, Timor-Leste – The sound of leather hitting willow has officially arrived in the highlands! The Timor-Leste Cricket Board (TLCB) is thrilled to announce the successful launch of our inaugural Training Clinic in Ermera, marking a massive milestone for the sport’s expansion across the nation.
This isn’t just about wickets and runs; it’s about building the future of Timorese youth.
A Powerful Start
The turnout has been nothing short of historic. We are seeing incredible enthusiasm from the local community:
Total Reach: 190 young Timorese girls and boys have stepped onto the pitch.
Dedication: An impressive 165 participants maintained a perfect attendance record across all sessions.
The Schedule: The clinic runs every Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday, providing a consistent environment for growth.
More Than Just a Game: Cricket & Literacy
In a unique twist to sports development, the TLCB is ensuring these athletes excel both on the field and in the classroom. Under the expert guidance of Coach Zacaria, Dr. Tayyeb, and Paulina, the program delivered:
6 High-Energy Cricket Sessions: Focusing on the fundamentals of batting, bowling, and fielding.
3 Basic English Classes: Integrated directly into the clinic hours to boost communication skills and global readiness.
“This program is a triple threat for youth development—focusing on physical health, education, and empowerment,” says the TLCB coaching team. “Seeing 190 kids eager to learn a new sport and a new language simultaneously is a testament to the potential in Ermera.”
Looking Ahead
The Ermera Training Clinic is not a one-time event. This program will continue every week, serving as a blueprint for how the TLCB intends to use cricket as a tool for social change and empowerment throughout Timor-Leste.
Stay tuned as we continue to nurture the next generation of Timorese cricketers!
Historic Fundraising Success for Timor-Leste Women’s Cricket in Adelaide Slider1
Location: Adelaide, Australia
Reported by: Timor-Leste Cricket Board (TLCB)
Executive Summary
The Timor-Leste Cricket Board (TLCB) is proud to report the monumental success of the “An Evening Supporting Timor-Leste Women’s Cricket” fundraising event held last week. Hosted by the Friends of Timor-Leste Women, the event took place on Friday, 16 January 2026, at the prestigious Karen Rolton Oval in Adelaide. The evening served as a vital initiative to raise funds and awareness for the development of women’s cricket in Timor-Leste following our landmark achievement of becoming an ICC Member and playing our first international matches.
Event Highlights & Proceedings
The evening was a vibrant celebration of sport and international friendship, co-hosted by Sandra Dann, who served as the Emcee. The program included several high-profile speakers:
Jenny Thompson from the Her World Cricket Tour.
Ana Joaquim Pedruco, Former Presidential Advisor.
Mariana Dias Ximenes OLY, General Secretary of the Timor-Leste Cricket Board.
General Secretary Mariana Dias Ximenes represented the TLCB, presenting the official Chairman’s book and special gifts to honored guests as a token of our gratitude. The event also featured a Silent Auction, Raffle, a Mystery Wine Pick, and a popular Timor-Leste Pop-Up Shop.
List of Donors and Contributions
The generosity of the South Australian community resulted in a significant financial boost for Timor-Leste cricket. Notable contributions included:
Donor
Item / Contribution
Value/Amount
Irfan Hashmi (The Australian Pavilion)
Signed Travis Head print bat, 3helmets,
$1200+
SACA / Adelaide Strikers
WBBL 11 signed bat
$400
The Drone Guy
Professional photography print
$500
Heather Croall (Adelaide Fringe)
3 Lucas Croall art prints and a $100 Fringe voucher
$750
Artis Wines & Sandra Dann
Dozen wines plus 6 bottles from Sandra for Mystery Wine Game
$660
Cath & David Hopgood
Tais map and book
~$400
Maria Madeira
Original painting
~$350
Caricatures by Adam Kennedy
Professional caricature services
$110
Nell Wood
Toys and raffle prizes
$100+
Janet Aumann
Direct cash donation
$200
Mark Young
Support for travel and logistics
$430
Jenny Thompson
Support for travel and logistics
$1200
Additional prizes and support were provided by Bronwyn Dann (earrings), Alison Dowell (art cards), Ana Joaquim Pedruco (TL Books), and authors Vicki Foote and Rob Harvey.
Milestones and Acknowledgments
The evening also recognized the excellence of South Australian women’s cricketers, including Wisden’s Leading Woman Cricketers Lyn Fullston, Jill Kennare, Joanne Broadbent, and Karen Rolton. We also celebrated the Recent SA Hall of Fame Inductees and current National Champion teams.
Supporters and Volunteers
Our deepest thanks go to Timor-Leste President José Ramos-Horta for his ongoing patronage, as well as to Jing Lee MLC and Tammy Franks MLC for their dedicated support.
We also acknowledge the tireless efforts of our volunteers: Danielle Wood, Tara Nicholson, Georgia Gowing, Matthew Akers, Linda Lacey, Melanie Carter, Julia Pitcher, David Kempe, Bruce Stribley, and James Lang.
Official Thank You Message from the Chairman, TLCB
“On behalf of the Timor-Leste Cricket Board, I wish to express my heartfelt gratitude to the people of Australia for their overwhelming support. The ‘huge’ amount raised and the incredible spirit of generosity shown in Adelaide will directly empower our female athletes and help us build a lasting cricket legacy in Timor-Leste. We are especially grateful to the Friends of Timor-Leste Women and all our donors for believing in our journey.”
