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Category: News

  • Historic Fundraising Success for Timor-Leste Women’s Cricket in Adelaide

    Historic Fundraising Success for Timor-Leste Women’s Cricket in Adelaide

    Historic Fundraising Success for Timor-Leste Women’s Cricket in Adelaide Slider1
    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:

    DonorItem / ContributionValue/Amount
    Irfan Hashmi (The Australian Pavilion)Signed Travis Head print bat, 3helmets, $1200+
    SACA / Adelaide StrikersWBBL 11 signed bat $400
    The Drone GuyProfessional photography print $500
    Heather Croall (Adelaide Fringe)3 Lucas Croall art prints and a $100 Fringe voucher $750
    Artis Wines & Sandra DannDozen wines plus 6 bottles from Sandra for Mystery Wine Game $660
    Cath & David HopgoodTais map and book ~$400
    Maria MadeiraOriginal painting ~$350
    Caricatures by Adam KennedyProfessional caricature services $110
    Nell WoodToys and raffle prizes $100+
    Janet AumannDirect cash donation $200
    Mark YoungSupport for travel and logistics $430
    Jenny ThompsonSupport for travel and logistics$1200
    Historic Fundraising Success for Timor-Leste Women’s Cricket in Adelaide

    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.”

  • Former Olympian Mariana Dias Ximenes Leads Cricket Timor-Leste’s Call for National Support

    Former Olympian Mariana Dias Ximenes Leads Cricket Timor-Leste’s Call for National Support

    DILI, TIMOR-LESTE – In a powerful display of leadership, the General Secretary of Cricket Timor-Leste (CTL), Mariana Dias Ximenes, held a landmark meeting this week to review the federation’s progress and outline a bold vision for the nation’s youth.

    Ximenes, a legendary long-distance runner who famously represented Timor-Leste in the women’s marathon at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, has brought her “international courage” and athletic tenacity to the boardroom. During the session, she presented a detailed report on the performance and grassroots activities that defined Timorese cricket in 2025.

    General Secretary Cricket Timor Leste

    2025: A Year of Historic Firsts

    The General Secretary highlighted 2025 as a transformative year for the sport, marked by the nation’s official entry onto the international stage. Key achievements presented included:

    • International Debut: Timor-Leste played its first-ever official T20 International matches in November 2025 during the Bali Bash International Rising East Asia Tri-Series.
    • Youth Development: The expansion of cricket programs into schools, providing hundreds of Timorese youth with their first introduction to the game.
    • World-Record Milestones: The emergence of local talent, including the historic debut of the first-ever father-son duo in international cricket (Suhail Sattar and Yahya Suhail), which brought global media attention to the country.

    A Direct Plea to the Ministry

    Despite the momentum, Ximenes was vocal about the hurdles facing the sport. Drawing on her experience as an Olympian, she sent a firm message to the Ministry of Youth, Sport, and Culture (SEJD). She insisted that for the sport to move beyond its “infancy,” the government must provide substantial support for future games.

    “I have carried our flag on the Olympic stage, and I know what it takes to compete globally,” Ximenes stated. “Our youth have shown incredible passion and resilience on the cricket field this year. However, passion alone is not enough. We demand that the Ministry stand with us to provide the infrastructure, equipment, and funding necessary to ensure Timor-Leste is not just a participant, but a competitor in the years to come.”

    The Road Ahead

    The meeting concluded with a showcase of the “Cricket in the Community” initiative, which aims to use the sport as a tool for discipline and teamwork among Timorese youth. With the 2026 T20 World Cup qualifiers and regional tournaments on the horizon, Ximenes emphasized that the window for investment is now.

    The Timor-Leste Cricket Board remains hopeful that this appeal from one of the nation’s most respected sporting icons will trigger a new era of cooperation with the government.

  • TLCB GLOBAL NEWS: Major Equipment Donation from UK Bolsters Timor-Leste Cricket Development

    TLCB GLOBAL NEWS: Major Equipment Donation from UK Bolsters Timor-Leste Cricket Development

    DILI, TIMOR-LESTE – The Timor-Leste Cricket Board (TLCB) is proud to announce the successful arrival and handover of a significant donation of cricket equipment, marking a major milestone in the effort to professionalize the sport across the nation.

    The donation, which includes 24 high-quality cricket kits specifically for both men and women players, was made possible through a strategic partnership between the Embaixada da RDTL em Londres (Timor-Leste Embassy in London), Bat for a Chance (UK), and Bricon Shipping BS.

    Donations from bat for a chance and bs and rdtl

    A Global Collaborative Effort

    This initiative highlights the strong ties between the Timorese diaspora and international sporting charities. The Embassy in London worked closely with UK-based charity Bat for a Chance to source the equipment, while Bricon Shipping BS provided the vital logistical support necessary to transport the gear from the United Kingdom to the shores of Timor-Leste.

    The 24 kits comprise professional-grade bats, helmets, pads, and gloves, ensuring that players in Dili and the surrounding districts can train and play with the highest standards of safety and performance.

    Official Recognition and Gratitude

    In an official statement released today, the Federation expressed its deep appreciation for the individuals and organizations that turned this logistical challenge into a reality:

    “The Timor Cricket Federation extends its sincere thanks to Bat for a Chance (UK) for their very generous donation of cricket equipment which arrived in Dili recently. We would also like to thank the Timor-Leste Embassy in the UK and TL Hon Consul in Scotland, Roy Trivedy, for their invaluable supports.

    This contribution will make a real difference in growing cricket and supporting our players across the country.

    Thank you for your continued support of cricket in Timor-Leste 🏏🇹🇱”

    Empowering Men and Women Players

    A key focus of this donation is inclusivity. By providing equal numbers of kits for both male and female athletes, the TLCB is reinforcing its commitment to gender equality in sports. These resources will be distributed to regional hubs to ensure that aspiring cricketers, regardless of their location or gender, have the tools they need to succeed.

    The TLCB continues to invite partners and the global community to support the growth of cricket as a tool for community building and national pride.

  • TLCB EXCLUSIVE: “Women’s Empowerment Cricket League” Set for May 2026 Launch

    TLCB EXCLUSIVE: “Women’s Empowerment Cricket League” Set for May 2026 Launch

    DILI, TIMOR-LESTE – The Timor-Leste Cricket Board (TLCB) has issued an official update regarding the timeline for the landmark “Women’s Empowerment Cricket League.”

    While the league was originally anticipated to bowl its first delivery in March 2026, the TLCB executive committee has made the strategic decision to reschedule the tournament to the start of May 2026.

    This adjustment ensures that the league—a cornerstone of the “Crocodiles” national development strategy—receives the full logistical support and preparation it deserves.

    Women's Empowerment Cricket League

    Official Statement from TLCB

    “The Women Empowerment Cricket League is more than just a tournament; it is a movement to inspire the next generation of Timorese women. By moving the launch to start May, we are ensuring a higher level of competitive play and a more celebratory experience for our fans and stakeholders across the country.”

    Key Highlights of the Reschedule

    • Expanded Training Phase: The additional time allows national coaches to further refine the skills of participating squads through intensive training camps.
    • Logistical Optimization: The shift ensures that the arrival of recent equipment donations from the UK and fundraising support from Australia are fully integrated into the league’s operations.
    • Community Engagement: The new start-May start date aligns with school programs and regional outreach initiatives to maximize student participation.

    Empowering the Future

    The league remains the primary platform for scouting talent for the Timor-Leste Women’s National Team. Following the success of recent international donor programs, the TLCB is committed to making this the most professional and high-impact women’s sporting event in the nation’s history.

    The board would like to thank our players, partners, and the growing cricket community for their patience and continued enthusiasm as we prepare for this historic debut.

    For further updates, official fixtures, and team rosters, stay tuned to tlcb.net.

  • 🏏 Double Wicket Victory in Ermera: 103 Youngsters Master Cricket and English

    🏏 Double Wicket Victory in Ermera: 103 Youngsters Master Cricket and English

    🏏 Double Wicket Victory in Ermera: 103 Youngsters Master Cricket and English

    ERMERA, TIMOR-LESTE — The future of Timor-Leste cricket just got brighter, following a successful and highly impactful six-day training camp held right here in Ermera. A total of 103 enthusiastic boys and girls participated in the multi-faceted program, which not only delivered foundational cricket training but also incorporated essential basic English language speaking courses.

    The camp, which concluded yesterday, was hailed as a significant success by the Timor-Leste Cricket Board (TLCB) and local community leaders. It represents a growing commitment to developing not just sporting talent, but also key life skills among the nation’s youth.

    🗣️ Beyond the Boundary: Learning to Speak Up

    A unique element of the six-day event was the inclusion of an English speaking course. In an increasingly global sporting world, the ability to communicate in English is vital for engagement with international coaches, match officials, and future opportunities.

    “The enthusiasm was infectious,” said one of the camp organizers. “They showed as much dedication to learning the correct grip for a bat as they did to saying ‘Howzat!’ or introducing themselves in English. We believe the dual focus on sport and language will open many doors for these young participants.”

    The course concentrated on practical, conversational English, particularly phrases relevant to sportsmanship, teamwork, and traveling.

    🎯 Grassroots Cricket Gaining Pace

    On the field, the 103 young cricketers, a mix of boys and girls demonstrating a strong commitment to gender equality in sport, were put through their paces. Training covered all fundamentals of the game:

    • Batting: Stance, shot selection, and running between the wickets.
    • Bowling: Basic techniques for fast and spin bowling.
    • Fielding: Catching drills and ground fielding practice.

    The high turnout in Ermera underscores the growing appetite for cricket across Timor-Leste, extending the reach of the sport beyond the capital, Dili. The TLCB is actively working to foster this grassroots growth, a key step following Timor-Leste’s recent achievement of Associate Membership with the International Cricket Council (ICC).

    The young participants are now returning to their communities with new skills in hand and a fresh sense of purpose, carrying the combined tools of sportsmanship and language that will help them succeed both on and off the pitch.

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  • Historic First Cricket Training Camp Ignites Sporting Passion in Viqueque

    Historic First Cricket Training Camp Ignites Sporting Passion in Viqueque

    Historic First Cricket Training Camp Ignites Sporting Passion in Viqueque

    Viqueque, Timor-Leste | November 28, 2025

    The district of Viqueque achieved a significant milestone in its sporting history this week, successfully hosting its first-ever comprehensive cricket training camp. A total of 76 enthusiastic young participants, including both girls and boys, joined forces with local senior players and administrative officials for a productive and inclusive session, signaling a powerful new beginning for the sport in the region.

    The multi-day camp, which concluded on Wednesday, was hailed as a resounding success by organizers. The initiative was strongly supported by the District Administrative Office, whose staff were present throughout the training to underscore the government’s commitment to grassroots sports development and providing positive engagement opportunities for youth.

    “This is more than just learning to bat or bowl; it’s about building discipline, teamwork, and confidence in our young people,” stated Mr. Tomas Faria, a representative from the Administrative Office. “To see 76 young faces, a large percentage of whom are young women, participating with such dedication is proof that Viqueque is ready to embrace cricket. The infrastructure development will follow the passion, not the other way around.”

    The training sessions were carefully structured, covering fundamental skills like grip, stance, throwing mechanics, and basic field placements. Experienced senior players from the district took on mentorship roles, guiding the novices through drills and simulated match situations. This transfer of knowledge between generations is critical for establishing a sustainable cricket culture in Viqueque.

    Participants praised the camp for its welcoming and encouraging atmosphere. Maria Guterres, 14, one of the young participants, shared her excitement, “I had never held a cricket bat before this week, but now I know the rules, and I love fielding. It’s a sport where everyone can contribute. I hope this camp is just the start of regular training here.”

    With the success of this inaugural event, officials are planning to formalize a local cricket program, including the formation of junior teams and the potential for inter-district competition in the near future. This camp not only provided essential sports training but also solidified a strong partnership between local government, senior athletes, and the youth of Viqueque, promising a bright future for cricket in the district.

    1st cricket training camp in district viqueque
    1st cricket training camp in district viqueque
  • BREAKING NEWS: TLCB Confirms “Rising Timor Cricket League” for January 2026

    BREAKING NEWS: TLCB Confirms “Rising Timor Cricket League” for January 2026

    DILI, TIMOR-LESTE – In a historic move for the nation’s sporting landscape, the Timor-Leste Cricket Board (TLCB) has officially announced the launch of the “Rising Timor Cricket League,” scheduled to take place in January 2026.

    This landmark event marks a major milestone for the country, which recently achieved ICC Associate Member status in July 2025. Following the national team’s international debut in late 2025, the TLCB is now shifting its focus toward building a robust domestic structure and unearthing local talent through this high-octane T20 tournament.

    Tournament Overview

    The league is designed to follow the popular T20 format, ensuring fast-paced action and entertainment for fans across the country. By hosting the league locally, the TLCB aims to provide a platform for homegrown players to showcase their skills alongside emerging regional talent.

    FeatureDetails
    Tournament NameRising Timor Cricket League
    HostTimor-Leste Cricket Board (TLCB)
    FormatTwenty20 (T20)
    Kick-offJanuary 2026
    VenuePrimary matches expected in Dili and surrounding districts

    A New Era for Cricket in Timor-Leste

    The announcement comes on the heels of increasing momentum for the sport in the region. TLCB officials have stated that the “Rising Timor” brand represents the growth and ambition of the nation.

    “This league is not just about cricket; it’s about the spirit of a rising nation. We want to inspire the next generation of East Timorese athletes and bring the excitement of T20 cricket to every corner of our country.” — TLCB Representative.

    The league is expected to feature several franchise-style teams, potentially building on existing regional identities like the Ermera Avengers, Dili Dragons, Aileu Hunters, and Baucau Blasters.

    Key Highlights for Fans

    • Domestic Talent: A dedicated quota for local East Timorese players in every squad.
    • International Exposure: Discussions are underway to include guest players from neighboring ICC Associate nations.
    • Youth Development: The league will serve as a primary scouting ground for the national team’s 2026 international calendar.
  • Triumph and Future Focus: ICC Greets Timor-Leste Cricket Team

    Triumph and Future Focus: ICC Greets Timor-Leste Cricket Team

    DÍLI, Timor-Leste – November 15, 2025 – The Timor-Leste National Cricket Squad received a warm and significant welcome upon their return home yesterday, following their participation in the Bali Blast Rising East Tri Series in Indonesia. Waiting at Díli’s Presidente Nicolau Lobato International Airport was Emily O’Brien, the International Cricket Council (ICC) East Asia-Pacific (EAP) Finance & Operations Manager, underscoring the ICC’s commitment to the nation’s budding cricket program.

    The team, which competed against hosts Indonesia and Myanmar, returned with valuable international experience. While the results in the tournament proved challenging for the young side, including several losses by large margins, the focus remains on the long-term development and exposure gained from competing at this level.

    🤝 O’Brien Highlights ICC Support and Development Plans

    Ms. O’Brien met personally with members of the squad, coaching staff, and representatives from the Timor-Leste Cricket Board (TLCB). She commended the players for their dedication and courage in facing more established teams in the Tri-Series.

    “The ICC is incredibly proud of the efforts of the Timor-Leste squad,” Ms. O’Brien stated. “Participation in tournaments like the Bali Blast is absolutely crucial. It’s about building a foundation, gaining match experience, and understanding the intensity of international competition. The scores don’t tell the full story; the development and resilience shown by these players are what truly matter.”

    The ICC EAP official’s visit is part of a broader effort to assess the needs and support the growth of cricket in the country. Her discussions at the airport are understood to have centered on future ICC funding allocations, coach education programs, and securing more regional fixtures to accelerate the team’s progress.

    📈 Looking Ahead to a Brighter Cricket Future

    The TLCB has previously met with Olympic leaders, and Ms. O’Brien herself has been actively observing the local cricket scene, including visiting Díli schools, as the game works to cement its place in Timor-Leste’s sporting landscape.

    The focus for the TLCB, supported by the ICC, will now shift to leveraging the Tri-Series experience. This includes implementing structured training regimes and identifying new opportunities for domestic growth and international competition, all aimed at nurturing Timor-Leste’s emerging cricketing talent. The National Squad’s performance, while tough, serves as a vital stepping stone toward a competitive future in the EAP region.

  • Muhammad Yahya Suhail’s All-Round Masterclass Shines for Timor-Leste

    Muhammad Yahya Suhail’s All-Round Masterclass Shines for Timor-Leste

    Bali, Indonesia — In a challenging T20 encounter against Myanmar, Timor-Leste’s Muhammad Yahya Suhail delivered a spectacular Man of the Match performance, providing a much-needed beacon of individual brilliance for the team. Suhail’s efforts, both with the ball and the bat, were instrumental in ensuring Timor-Leste finished with a respectable total against a formidable opponent.

    Suhail’s day began with an impactful bowling spell. He claimed two crucial wickets, most notably dismissing Myanmar’s top-scorer, Ko Ko Lin Thu (71 runs off 46 balls), and swiftly removing the opposition captain, Htet Lin Aung, for a duck. These pivotal breakthroughs were vital in limiting Myanmar’s total to 180.

    However, it was his performance with the bat that truly etched his name into the match report. Facing a daunting target of 181 and with wickets tumbling rapidly around him, Suhail stepped up as the anchor of the innings. He showed tremendous composure and resilience, batting through the rest of the 20 overs to register a heroic 53 not out off 61 deliveries.

    His lone resistance ensured that Timor-Leste pushed their total to 93/7, giving the team a much-needed morale boost and demonstrating the depth of talent within the squad. While the result may not have gone Timor-Leste’s way, Suhail’s all-round display—combining his two key wickets with his unbeaten half-century—was a performance of rare quality, earning him the well-deserved Man of the Match honours.

  • 🤝 ICC and TLCB Meet with Olympic Leaders to Cement Cricket’s Place in Timor-Leste Sports

    🤝 ICC and TLCB Meet with Olympic Leaders to Cement Cricket’s Place in Timor-Leste Sports

    DÍLI – In a pivotal meeting aimed at solidifying the long-term future of cricket within the nation’s sporting landscape, Emily O’Brien, the International Cricket Council (ICC) East Asia-Pacific (EAP) Finance & Operations Manager, visited the National Olympic Committee (NOC) of Timor-Leste.

    Ms. O’Brien was joined by Mariana Dias Ximenes Oly, the General Secretary of the Timor-Leste Cricket Board (TLCB), for discussions with key officials from the National Olympic Committee, signaling a strong move toward greater integration and partnership between the TLCB and the broader national sports authority.

    High-Level Attendance 🗓️

    The meeting, held at the NOC headquarters, saw the presence of the following top National Olympic Committee officials:

    • Mr. Mateus Carvalho da Cruz, 1st Vice President
    • Mr. Vicente de Carvalho da Silva, 2nd Vice President
    • Mr. Laurentino Guterres, Secretary General

    The attendance of the Vice Presidents and the Secretary General underscores the significance the NOC places on the development of new and emerging sports, such as cricket, in Timor-Leste.

    The Agenda: Development and Collaboration 🏏

    The core focus of the discussion was to explore avenues for cooperation, particularly in areas of athlete development, facility usage, and governance standards, as the TLCB continues its mission to grow cricket from the grassroots level up.

    ICC EAP Manager Emily O’Brien presented an overview of the ICC’s development programs and the criteria for maximizing support, stressing the importance of alignment with the nation’s overall sports strategy.

    TLCB General Secretary Mariana Dias Ximenes Oly highlighted the progress made in the Cricket in the Schools program and sought the NOC’s guidance and support in securing access to wider training and competition resources.

    “This meeting marks a crucial step in our journey,” stated Ms. Oly. “Working closely with the National Olympic Committee is essential for ensuring cricket can access the necessary infrastructure and expertise to develop elite Timorese athletes and achieve regional success.”

    Commitment to the Olympic Movement

    NOC officials reportedly expressed their strong support for the TLCB’s efforts. 1st Vice President Mateus Carvalho da Cruz emphasized the NOC’s mandate to assist all national federations in achieving international recognition and providing opportunities for young people.

    “We recognize the passion and growth potential of cricket in Timor-Leste,” a statement from the NOC is expected to read. “We are committed to helping the TLCB integrate effectively into the national sports structure, adhering to the principles of the Olympic Movement.”

    The successful visit is anticipated to pave the way for formal cooperation agreements, potentially unlocking more resources for cricket through Olympic Solidarity programs and strengthening the TLCB’s institutional capacity.