Category: News

Timor-Leste Cricket Officials Brief Japanese Ambassador on Rapid Growth and Global Debut
Timor-Leste Cricket Officials Brief Japanese Ambassador on Rapid Growth and Global Debut

DILI, TIMOR-LESTE — Cricket Timor-Leste (TLCB) is continuing its proactive engagement with the international diplomatic community. In a recent high-level meeting, TLCB Chairman Mr. Dr. Muhammad Tayyeb Javed and General Secretary Ms. Mariana Diaz Ximenez met with His Excellency Mr. Kimura Tetsuya, the Japanese Ambassador to Timor-Leste in Dili.

The meeting focused on introducing the Ambassador to the rapid evolution of cricket within Timor-Leste, from grassroots development to the national team’s international debut.

🌟 Highlighting Domestic Progress and International Status

Chairman Dr. Javed and General Secretary Ximenez provided a comprehensive overview of the domestic cricket landscape, emphasizing the success of local tournaments and community outreach programs designed to popularize the sport.

A key point of discussion was the nation’s recent achievement of becoming an ICC Associate Member and the team’s inaugural participation in international T20I competitions. The TLCB leaders stressed that this global status marks a new era for Timorese cricket, requiring international partnership to sustain growth.

Ambassador Kimura Tetsuya, whose nation, Japan, also has a growing profile in the East Asia-Pacific cricket region, was briefed on:

Youth Engagement: Efforts to integrate cricket into schools and communities.

Infrastructure Needs: The ambitious plans for developing proper training and playing facilities.

International Aspirations: The strategy for ensuring consistent representation of Timor-Leste on the regional and world stage.

This diplomatic dialogue is a significant step for TLCB in securing diverse international support, not only for development funding but also for expertise, aligning with Japan’s recognized efforts in promoting sport and development across the region.
November 5, 2025
📰 TLCB Highlights Cricket Growth and International Ambitions to Indian Embassy Officials

📰 TLCB Highlights Cricket Growth and International Ambitions to Indian Embassy Officials

DILI, TIMOR-LESTE — The leadership of Cricket Timor-Leste (TLCB), Chairman Mr. Dr. Muhammad Tayyeb Javed and General Secretary Ms. Mariana Diaz Ximenez, held a productive follow-up meeting with officials from the Embassy of India in Dili. The focus of the high-level discussion was to brief the Indian delegation on the tangible progress and future plans for both domestic and international participation of the Timor-Leste national cricket team.

The TLCB representatives met with Mr. Arindam Banerjee, Head of Chancery, and Mr. Pawan Kadyan, Attaché (Political Affairs).

📈 Charting a Course from Domestic Leagues to Global Stage

Chairman Dr. Tayyeb Javed detailed the recent successful implementation of domestic T-10 and T-20 leagues and grassroots programs, which are vital for identifying and developing local Timorese talent.

General Secretary Mariana Diaz Ximenez outlined the key international milestones, including the team’s historic preparations and recent participation in their first-ever international T20I tournament, such as the reported BBI Rising East Asia Tri-Series in Indonesia. The officials emphasized that international exposure is crucial for the team’s development and their goal of achieving higher global ranking.

The presentation highlighted the TLCB’s commitment to continuous engagement with the International Cricket Council (ICC) and other regional bodies to secure more competitive fixtures.

The Embassy of India officials were keen to learn about the current domestic structure and the challenges faced in preparing the national team for the rigors of international cricket, signaling a positive interest in offering potential avenues for cooperation and support.

This engagement further solidifies the promising relationship between the TLCB and the Embassy of India, which is essential for the accelerated growth of cricket in Timor-Leste.

November 5, 2025

🏏 Timor-Leste Squad Announced for BBI Rising East Asia Tri-Series T20I in Indonesia

DILI, TIMOR-LESTE – The Timor-Leste national cricket team has officially announced its 12-man squad for the upcoming BBI: Rising East Asia Tri-Series, a T20I Series set to be hosted in Indonesia from November 6 to 14, 2025.

The squad list, released by the team, confirms the names of the players who will represent the nation in this important tournament, which serves as a vital step in Timor-Leste’s growing presence in international cricket.

🌟 Key Squad Details

The team features a mix of experienced and emerging talent:

Youthful Energy: The squad includes Muhammad Yahya Suhail, who brings a right-hand batting and right-arm medium bowling combination.
Veteran Presence: Providing invaluable experience will be players like Arif Hosen and Rahat Kazi, who is also a right-arm fast bowler.
Wicketkeeper Confirmed: The role of the wicketkeeper is assigned to Egidio Dos Santos Pinheiro.
Dominant Batting Style: The team heavily favors Right-Hand Batting (RHB), with all 12 players listed as RHB.
Bowling Attack Mix: The bowling unit is primarily composed of Right-Arm Fast and Right-Arm Offbreak bowlers, with a notable number of players—Arif Hosen, Muhammad Tayyeb Javed, Domingos Mendonca, and Rafael Dos Santos Moreira—listed as “Does Not Bowl.”

Player Spotlight	Role/Style
Muhammad Yahya Suhail	RHB, Right-Arm Medium
Elias Tilman	RHB, Right-Arm Fast
Rahat Kazi	RHB, Right-Arm Fast
Egidio Pinheiro	Wicketkeeper (WK)

Sl. No.	First Name	Last Name	Display Name	Batting Style	Bowling Style
1	Muhammad Yahya	Suhail	Yahya	RHB	RIGHT-ARM MEDIUM
2	Arif	Hosen	Arif Hosen	RHB	DOES NOT BOWL
3	MD Raihan	Hossain	MD Raihan	RHB	RIGHT-ARM OFFBREAK
4	Muhammad Suhail	Sattar	Muhammad Suhail	RHB	RIGHT-ARM FAST
5	Elias	Tilman	Elias	RHB	RIGHT-ARM FAST
6	Muhammad	Tayyeb Javed	Muhammad Tayyeb Javed	RHB	DOES NOT BOWL
7	MD Nazmul	Huda	Nazmul	RHB	RIGHT-ARM MEDIUM
8	Domingos	Mendonca	Domingos	RHB	DOES NOT BOWL
9	Egidio Dos Santos	Pinheiro	Egidio	RHB	WK
10	Rahat	Kazi	Rahat Kazi	RHB	RIGHT-ARM FAST
11	Goncalo	Filipe Cardoso	Goncalo	RHB	RIGHT-ARM OFFBREAK
12	Rafael Dos Santos	Moreira	Rafael	RHB	DOES NOT BOWL

📢 Team Outlook

The BBI: Rising East Asia Tri-Series provides a crucial platform for Timor-Leste to gain exposure and experience in the T20I format. The diverse mix of pace and off-spin bowling, coupled with an entirely right-handed batting lineup, will be the central pillars of their strategy as they compete in Indonesia.

The cricket community in Timor-Leste will be closely watching as their national team steps onto the international stage, hoping to see the blend of youth and experience translate into competitive performances during the tournament.

Stay tuned to TLCB.com for match reports and updates on Timor-Leste’s progress throughout the BBI: Rising East Asia Tri-Series.

November 3, 2025

Cricket Fever Grips Dili! 🏏 Cricket Timor-Leste Inspires Youth at Escola Bidau Akadiri-Hun

Dili, Timor-Leste – October 24, 2025 – The sound of cheers and the thwack of the bat echoed through Escola Bidau Akadiri-Hun yesterday as Cricket Timor-Leste (CTL) successfully hosted an energetic and educational Cricket Clinic for the school’s young students. This initiative marks another significant step in the organization’s mission to popularize the sport across the nation.

Over 60 Enthusiastic Students Participate

A vibrant group of more than 60 boys and girls enthusiastically embraced the session, learning the core skills of batting, bowling, and fielding through interactive Criiio activities. More than just sport, the event was designed to instill important values, focusing heavily on promoting teamwork, discipline, and gender equality through the inclusive spirit of cricket.

“Cricket for All” Program Expands Reach

Dr. Muhammad Tayyeb Javed, President of Cricket Timor-Leste, expressed his delight at the clinic’s success. “Seeing the excitement and enthusiasm on the faces of these children is truly rewarding,” he stated. Dr. Javed confirmed that this effort is a crucial component of CTL’s ongoing “Cricket for All” program, which aims to systematically expand cricket development across schools in Dili and surrounding districts.

Building a Foundation for Future Success

Mariana Dias Ximenes, the General Secretary, extended heartfelt thanks to the school management for their invaluable cooperation in making the event possible. She strongly encouraged other educational institutions to follow suit and participate in future cricket development programs to nurture young talent.

This successful clinic at Escola Bidau Akadiri-Hun solidifies another milestone in Cricket Timor-Leste’s long-term strategy to build a strong foundation for both youth and women’s cricket in Timor-Leste, promising a bright future for the sport in the country. The students, clearly enjoying the Criiio activities, demonstrated a promising appetite for the game.

Escola Bidau Akadiri-Hun

Escola Bidau Akadiri-Hun

Escola Bidau Akadiri-Hun

Escola Bidau Akadiri-Hun

Escola Bidau Akadiri-Hun

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Escola Bidau Akadiri-Hun

Escola Bidau Akadiri-Hun

Escola Bidau Akadiri-Hun

Escola Bidau Akadiri-Hun

Escola Bidau Akadiri-Hun

Escola Bidau Akadiri-Hun

Escola Bidau Akadiri-Hun

October 24, 2025
Groundbreaking Development! Timor-Leste to Build National Cricket Academy in Aipelo, Liquisa
DILI, TIMOR-LESTE – October 23, 2025

In a monumental stride for the future of cricket in the nation, the Timor-Leste Cricket Board (TLCB.net) is thrilled to announce plans for the construction of a National Cricket Academy to be located in Aipelo, Liquisa.

Dr. Muhammad Tayyeb, Chairman of Cricket Timor-Leste, shared the exciting news, confirming that the new facility is scheduled to commence construction as soon as possible in 2026. This ambitious project marks a pivotal commitment to the long-term development of the sport, from grassroots level up to the national squad.

“This is a dream for every cricketer and every administrator who believes in the potential of Timor-Leste cricket,” stated Dr. Tayyeb. “The National Cricket Academy in Aipelo will serve as the heart of our cricketing ambition, providing a dedicated home for our talented young men and women.”

Timor Leste National Cricket Academy

The choice of Aipelo, Liquisa, a region known for its historical significance and scenic coastline, highlights the TLCB’s vision to integrate the sport’s growth with community development outside the capital.

The academy is designed to be a fully equipped, state-of-the-art training facility. It will feature all necessary amenities to ensure players receive professional-level preparation, including:

Pitches and Training Nets: Dedicated practice facilities for all weather conditions.

Player Accommodation: On-site housing to support national and regional training camps.

Gym and Conditioning Facilities: Modern equipment for physical fitness and injury prevention.

Coaching Resources: Classrooms and analysis rooms for theoretical and video-based training.

This significant investment underscores the TLCB’s commitment to overcoming financial hurdles and building a lasting cricketing legacy, following the country’s recent historic international debut. The National Cricket Academy will be crucial for nurturing the next generation of Timorese stars.

TLCB.net will provide further updates on the project’s groundbreaking ceremony and progress.
October 23, 2025

Historic Milestone: Timor-Leste Cricket Announces Squad for First-Ever International T20I Debut in Bali

DILI, TIMOR-LESTE – October 21, 2025 — The Timor-Leste Cricket Board is buzzing with pride and excitement as it officially unveils the national squad set to participate in the prestigious BBI Rising East Tri-Series T20I in Bali, Indonesia.

This tournament marks a truly historic moment for the nation, as it represents Timor-Leste’s first-ever international cricket appearance since achieving Full Member status with the International Cricket Council (ICC). A new chapter for the sport in Timor-Leste is officially underway, showcasing the rapid development and unwavering commitment of the country’s cricketing community.

“This is not just a cricket tour; it is a symbol of our national progress and unity on the global sporting stage,” a spokesperson for the Timor-Leste Cricket Board stated. “Our players are proud, united, and ready to shine in Bali.”

The squad, a blend of talent and dedication, will be led by Captain Domingos Mendonça and Vice-Captain Muhammad Suhail.

Timor-Leste National Squad

Sr.	Player Name	Player Role
1.	Elias Tilman	Captain (C)
2.	Muhammad Suhail	Vice Captain (VC)
3.	Agidio	Wicket Keeper (WK)
4.	Rahat Kazi	Player
5.	Raihan Hosain	Player
6.	Muhammad Yahya	Player
7.	Nazmul Huda	Player
8.	Gonsalo	Player
9.	Domingos Mendonça	Player
10.	Arif Hosen	Player
11.	Rafael	Player

Team Officials

The team will be supported by a dedicated management and coaching staff:

Dr. Muhammad Tayyeb Javed

Amdadul Haque

Muhammad Haider

The entire nation of Timor-Leste stands ready to cheer for the team as they embark on this landmark journey in international cricket.

October 21, 2025

Timor-Leste Cricket Board Unveils Ambitious 40,000 sqm National Sports Complex Plan

DILI, TIMOR-LESTE – [Insert Date of Release] – The Timor-Leste Cricket Board (TLCB) today announced the strategic allocation of a vast 40,000 square meter plot for the development of a comprehensive National Sports and Community Complex, centered around the growth of cricket in the nation.

The blueprint details a multi-faceted facility designed not only to meet international cricket standards but also to serve broader community needs.

At the heart of the complex will be the Main ICC Standard Cricket Ground, spanning 14,000 sq m (35% of the total area), which will include essential spectator amenities and a pavilion. Complementing this will be a Practice Cricket Ground covering 5,000 sq m.

Significantly, the plan dedicates 8,000 sq m (20%) to a New Round Ground, flexible space large enough to accommodate an international-sized athletics track or a major sports oval, catering to diverse national sports needs.

“This is a transformative vision for Timor-Leste,” stated a TLCB representative. “We are not just building a cricket ground; we are establishing a core community asset.”

The complex will feature vital infrastructure including a School Complex (4,000 sq m), a Hotel & Restaurant (3,000 sq m) to support tourism and large events, and a Hospital (3,000 sq m). Furthermore, 1,500 sq m is reserved for smaller courts for 34 other sports activities. The remaining land is allocated for essential roads, circulation, and green buffers.

The TLCB emphasized that this development will be a cornerstone for sports education, community well-being, and national sporting events.

October 17, 2025
TLCB to Host Exciting Criiio Cricket Festival in Dili, Championing Women’s Cricket

DILI, Timor-Leste – The Timor-Leste Cricket Board (TLCB) is thrilled to announce the upcoming Criiio Cricket Festival, a vibrant, community-focused event aimed at celebrating the spirit of cricket and, most importantly, accelerating the development of women’s participation in the sport.

The festival is set to take place on Tuesday, November 12, 2025, at the popular Fatuhada Ground in Dili, Timor-Leste.

The Criiio Cricket Festival will see eight enthusiastic teams compete in an action-packed, modified format tournament. In a move to make the game accessible and fast-paced, each team will consist of eight players, ensuring everyone gets a chance to bat, bowl, and field. Criiio, an initiative supported by the International Cricket Council (ICC), promotes inclusive and flexible forms of cricket, allowing the game to be played anywhere, by anyone.

Empowering Women in Cricket

A core objective of this festival is to vigorously encourage and celebrate the women’s spirit in cricket. The TLCB is dedicated to creating a supportive and inspiring environment for female athletes. This festival is a key platform to showcase the talent, passion, and competitive nature of women and girls in Timor-Leste, helping to lay a stronger foundation for a sustainable national women’s cricket program.

“This is more than just a day of matches; it is a celebration of community and a firm commitment to gender equality in sport,” said a representative from the TLCB. “We urge everyone—families, friends, and fans—to come down to Fatuhada Ground on November 12th to support our players. Your cheers will fuel the next generation of Timorese cricket stars.”

The TLCB looks forward to a day filled with thrilling cricket, community engagement, and a powerful demonstration of the growing enthusiasm for women’s sport in Timor-Leste.

Further details regarding the schedule and participating teams will be released shortly. Stay tuned to the TLCB website for updates!

TLCB News Desk www.tlcb.net

October 15, 2025
Escola Finentil Crowned Champions of Women’s Cricket League 2025
Dili, Timor-Leste – The inaugural Women’s Cricket League 2025 concluded in a thrilling finale this past weekend, with Escola Finentil (Blue) emerging as the champions. The tournament, held throughout September in Dili, showcased the growing talent and passion for cricket among young women in Timor-Leste.

Women Cricket League 2025

Eight teams from various girls’ schools and districts competed in the league:

Dili District (White)

Escola 10 de Decembro Comoro (Orange)

Dili International School (Yellow)

St. Jude International School (Purple)

Escola Finentil (Blue)

Escola Farol (Green)

Aileu District (Brown)

Escola 10 de December-SMP (Black)

Throughout the competition, players demonstrated impressive skills in batting, bowling, and fielding, making for several close and exciting matches. In the end, it was the standout performance of Escola Finentil that led them to the top. They secured a well-deserved victory and were presented with the championship trophy, celebrating their triumph with a jubilant team photo.

The tournament was a significant step forward for women’s sports in the region, highlighting the potential for cricket to become a popular sport in Timor-Leste. Organizers expressed their gratitude to all the participating schools and players for their dedication and sportsmanship, and are already looking forward to next year’s event.
September 23, 2025
President of Cricket Timor-Leste and Toby Cohen Visit Manatu to for Cricket Development In a remarkable step forward for cricket in Timor-Leste

The President of Cricket Timor-Leste, Mr. Muhammad Tayyeb Javed, welcomed Mr. Toby Cohen, the East Asia-Pacific (EAP) Representative from the International Cricket Council (ICC), for an official visit focused on the future of cricket in the country.Site Visit for Future Cricket Ground in ManatutoOne of the key highlights of the visit was a special trip to Manatuto, where both leaders visited the land proposed for building Timor-Leste’s first dedicated cricket ground. The land in Manatuto offers great potential to become a central hub for cricket activities and future tournaments in the region. Mr. Toby Cohen was impressed by the vision and passion behind the project and discussed possible steps to move forward with development.

Meetings with General Secretary of National Olympic Committee and President of National Sports Committee

President of Cricket Timor-Leste and Toby Cohen Visit Manatu to for Cricket Development In a remarkable step forward for cricket in Timor-Leste

During his visit, Mr. Cohen also met with the National Olympic Committee of Timor-Leste and the National Sports Committee, strengthening cooperation between cricket and national sports authorities. These meetings aimed to include cricket more prominently in national sports programs and to work together for long-term development and recognition of cricket in Timor-Leste.

Encouraging the Next Generation

School VisitThe visit continued with a meaningful stop at a local school where the “Cricket for Kids” program is being run under the Cricket Timor-Leste development initiative. Toby Cohen watched young boys and girls enjoy the game, inspiring them with his encouraging words and love for cricket. He praised the dedication of local volunteers and coaches who are working hard despite limited resources.

Special Moment

ICC Gift to President Cricket Timor-LesteAs a token of support and encouragement, Mr. Toby Cohen presented an official ICC T-shirt to Mr. Muhammad Tayyeb Javed, honoring his tireless efforts and leadership in growing cricket from the grassroots level. This symbolic gift reflects the ICC’s recognition and belief in the potential of cricket in Timor-Leste.

Cricket is More Than a Game – It’s a Movement in Timor-Leste

The visit marks a major milestone for Cricket Timor-Leste and opens doors to future collaborations with the ICC and international partners. From dusty grounds and handmade bats to official visits and international support, the journey of cricket in Timor-Leste continues to inspire hope, passion, and unity.Stay tuned on tlcb.net for more updates on our mission to build a brighter cricketing future in Timor-Leste!

May 30, 2025