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.
