Category: News

  • Registration Closes for the Highly Anticipated Timor-Leste Super League 2026

    Registration Closes for the Highly Anticipated Timor-Leste Super League 2026

    DILI, Timor-Leste — The Timor-Leste Cricket Board (TLCB) has officially announced the conclusion of the registration window for the upcoming Timor-Leste Super League. Closing today, 10th September 2026, the registration phase saw an overwhelming surge of interest from aspiring cricketers across the nation.

    With the tournament set to commence on 26th September 2026, enthusiastic players representing both boys and girls categories have actively submitted their registration forms to the board. The incredible turnout reflects the rapidly growing passion for the T20 format and the sport of cricket throughout Timor-Leste.

    Timor-leste Super League Social media Image Post 2nd

    The Timor-Leste Cricket Board will review all submitted applications in the coming days. Registered candidates will be formally informed of their official approval and squad inclusions shortly, allowing selected players to begin final preparations for the grand showcase.

    Organized entirely by the TLCB, the Super League aims to provide a competitive platform for local talent to shine, further elevating the standard of cricket in the country. Stay tuned to tlcb.net for further updates on team announcements and the official tournament fixture schedule.

  • Timor-Leste Cricket Board Leadership Attends ICC Coach Tutor Course in Brisbane and Strategic Meetings in Adelaide

    Timor-Leste Cricket Board Leadership Attends ICC Coach Tutor Course in Brisbane and Strategic Meetings in Adelaide

    BRISBANE / ADELAIDE — Timor-Leste Cricket Board (TLCB) Chairman and Head Coach Dr. Muhammad Tayyeb Javed, alongside General Secretary Mariana Dias Ximenes, have represented the nation at the prestigious International Cricket Council (ICC) Coach Tutor Course held in Brisbane, Australia.

    The high-level educational initiative brings together key cricket administrators and coaches across the East Asia-Pacific region to earn official certification as ICC Coach Tutors. The training equips participants with advanced methodologies to train, accredit, and mentor local grassroots coaches, creating a sustainable development pathway back home in Timor-Leste.

    Following the completion of the intensive program in Brisbane, the leadership delegation traveled to Adelaide for a series of external strategic meetings. The engagements focused on strengthening bilateral relationships, securing administrative support, and building long-term partnerships with local Australian cricket bodies and community organizations.

    5-Meetings in Adelaide Australia

    “Participating in the ICC Coach Tutor Course and engaging with the vibrant Australian cricket network marks a significant milestone for our development roadmap,” TLCB leadership shared. “These opportunities allow us to return home with international best practices to elevate our national coaching framework and grass-roots player development.”

    The knowledge and formal qualifications gained during this Australian tour will directly enhance TLCB’s ongoing national initiatives, including community youth leagues and school outreach programs across East Timor.

    For updates on national development programs and upcoming fixtures, visit tlcb.net.

    This video highlights how the ICC Coach Tutor initiative develops accredited regional trainers to expand grassroots cricket education across national boards: COACH TUTORS TRAINED

  • Historic Gift: Timor-Leste Cricket Board Honored with 30-Year-Old Sir Donald Bradman Signed Bat

    Historic Gift: Timor-Leste Cricket Board Honored with 30-Year-Old Sir Donald Bradman Signed Bat

    DILI — The Timor-Leste Cricket Board (TLCB) has received a priceless addition to its sporting heritage: a 30-year-old cricket bat bearing the autograph of Australian legend Sir Donald Bradman.

    The historic artifact was formally presented to TLCB representatives during their recent tour to Adelaide, South Australia. The presentation was made on behalf of the Vitalstatistix Theatre Company by Catherine Fitzgerald alongside her partner, Pat Rix.

    This gesture highlights the growing cross-border bond and deep community backing behind the development of cricket in East Timor. The delegation expressed immense gratitude for the hospitality shown throughout their trip, extending special thanks to Catherine Fitzgerald, Pat Rix, Sister Jen, Sandra Dann, Melanie Carter, and Jane Lowe from the Kensington Cricket Club for their warm reception and continuous support.

    4- Special Thanks Bat is Gifted to tlcb.net

    “This wonderful and historic gift will always be a very special memory of our visit to Adelaide and the friendship we received from the local cricket community,” TLCB stated in an official release.

    The acquired bat will serve as a centerpiece of inspiration for young Timorese athletes as the board continues to build grass-roots programs across the nation.

    For further updates and details on upcoming initiatives, visit tlcb.net.

  • Register Now for the Timor-Leste Super League 2026 T20 Tournament!

    Register Now for the Timor-Leste Super League 2026 T20 Tournament!

    TIMOR-LESTE SPORTS DESK — Excitement is building in the sporting community as official online registrations open for the highly anticipated Timor-Leste Super League 2026. Organized under the Timor-Leste Cricket Board (TLCB), this flagship tournament will be played in the thrilling T20 format and marks a major milestone for local and international sporting talent.

    📰 Official Announcement: Registrations Now Live

    The organizing committee has extended an open invitation to both male and female players across all skill levels to step up and participate. Designed to elevate cricket development and showcase regional talent, the T20 tournament serves as a key platform for emerging athletes.

    Participants are encouraged to submit their applications promptly before the registration window closes.

    Timor-leste Super League Social media Image Post

    🔑 Key Details & Schedule

    • Tournament Format: T20 Format
    • Tournament Start Date: September 26, 2026
    • Registration Deadline: September 10, 2026
    • Eligible Participants: Male & Female Players

    🔗 How to Register

    To submit your application or view full tournament requirements, complete your entry on the official registration page below:

    Note to Applicants: Ensure all entry requirements are completed prior to the September 10, 2026 deadline, as late submissions will not be accepted.

  • Global Spotlight: ICC Features Timor-Leste Women’s Cricket on Official Website!

    Global Spotlight: ICC Features Timor-Leste Women’s Cricket on Official Website!

    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.

  • Celebrating ICC Women’s Cricket Week: A Historic Day for Sports in Dili

    Celebrating ICC Women’s Cricket Week: A Historic Day for Sports in Dili

    DILI, TIMOR-LESTE — Today, Sunday, June 21, 2026, the Timor-Leste Cricket Board (TLCB) celebrated a major milestone for women’s sports. The board hosted the grand finale of a week-long cricket festival right here in the capital city of Dili.

    This event was part of a global celebration. All around the world, cricket boards joined the International Cricket Council (ICC) to honor female athletes. The TLCB spent the entire week traveling to different towns and villages across Timor-Leste to introduce the game. Today, those efforts ended with a massive and joyful gathering in Dili.

    A Historic Celebration of Women’s Cricket Week

    The highlight of the day was the incredible turnout. A huge crowd of women and young girls completely filled the sports grounds in Dili. It was one of the largest gatherings of female athletes the country has ever seen.

    Women;s Cricket Week

    From young primary school students to older teenagers, hundreds of passionate players came together. The atmosphere was filled with non-stop cheering, laughter, and a strong sense of community.

    Fun and Active Cricket Training

    To help everyone learn the sport, TLCB coaches and trainers turned the festival into a fun academy. The participants were divided into different groups depending on their experience:

    • The Batting Zone: Brand-new players learned how to hold the bat properly, stand correctly, and hit the ball.
    • The Bowling Station: Trainers taught the basic steps of overarm bowling, focusing on how to throw straight and hit the wickets.
    • Agility Drills: Fast and exciting catching games helped the girls improve their reflexes and teamwork.

    After practicing these skills, the players formed teams and played short, high-energy matches against each other.

    Building a Strong Future for Girls in Sport

    By joining this global ICC event, the Timor-Leste Cricket Board is opening new doors for women and girls in sports. School teachers and community leaders attended the event to show their support, praising the board for giving young women a safe and encouraging place to stay healthy and active.

    “We spent the whole week traveling to different spots, but seeing this massive crowd of girls playing cricket together in Dili today is amazing,” a senior TLCB official said at the closing ceremony. “Today proves that women’s cricket has a bright future in Timor-Leste. We will keep supporting these players by creating new school leagues and regular training programs.”

    As this global week comes to a close, the Timor-Leste Cricket Board is proud of the momentum they have built and is ready to help the next generation of female cricket heroes grow.

  • 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.

    3rd Criiio Cup 2026

    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.

  • 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