Category: News

  • 🏏 ICC’s Emily O’Brien Observes Timor-Leste Cricket, Visits Díli Schools

    🏏 ICC’s Emily O’Brien Observes Timor-Leste Cricket, Visits Díli Schools

    DÍLI – The development of cricket in Timor-Leste received a significant boost this week as Emily O’Brien, the International Cricket Council (ICC) East Asia-Pacific (EAP) Finance & Operations Manager, conducted an in-depth visit to observe the progress of the sport in schools and local communities.

    O’Brien, who is on a mission to assess and support the growth of cricket in the nation, has been accompanied by Mariana Dias Ximenes Oly, the General Secretary of the Timor-Leste Cricket Board (TLCB). The pair have toured several educational institutions and sites, highlighting the TLCB’s commitment to grassroots engagement.


    Grassroots Enthusiasm: School Visits 🏟️

    The visit’s itinerary focused heavily on schools where the cricket program is actively being introduced and embraced.

    • Eskola Finantil Comoro: The tour began at Eskola Finantil Comoro, where O’Brien and Oly witnessed enthusiastic participation in introductory cricket sessions tailored for younger students. The focus here was on soft-ball cricket and fundamental movement skills, ensuring the sport is accessible and fun for all children.
    • Eskola Básico Bidau Akadiruhun: Next, the delegation visited Eskola Básico Bidau Akadiruhun. The sessions observed here showcased the successful integration of cricket into the physical education curriculum. TLCB General Secretary Mariana Dias Ximenes Oly emphasized the social benefits of the sport, noting, “Cricket teaches teamwork and discipline, which are vital for our students’ development.”
    • Eskola 10 de Dezembro Comoro: At Eskola 10 de Dezembro Comoro, the visit highlighted the involvement of both male and female students in structured training drills. Ms. O’Brien reportedly spoke with local coaches about the challenges and successes of developing local coaching capacity and ensuring gender balance in the sport.

    A Look at Future Talent: Díli International School

    A key component of the visit was a stop at Díli International School (DIS). This provided Ms. O’Brien with an opportunity to see how cricket is being adopted in an international school setting, often a crucial step in building a sustainable national structure and identifying a diverse talent pool. The high-quality facilities at DIS offer a different environment for the students, providing valuable insights into the potential for higher-level development.


    ICC Commitment to Timor-Leste

    The presence of a high-ranking ICC official like Emily O’Brien underscores the international body’s commitment to supporting Timor-Leste, which is one of the newest members on the global cricketing stage.

    “It is inspiring to see the dedication of the Timor-Leste Cricket Board and the sheer excitement for the game among the children,” O’Brien stated during the tour. “The ICC is keen to partner with the TLCB to ensure a sustainable growth model, focusing on both participation and governance.”

    General Secretary Oly concluded the day by expressing her gratitude for the ICC’s support, affirming, “These visits are invaluable. They not only provide us with critical feedback but also motivate our players, coaches, and volunteers to push Timor-Leste cricket to the next level.”

    The findings from O’Brien’s observations are expected to shape future funding and development strategies for cricket in the country.

  • DILI DAZZLES: Criiio Cricket Festival Ignites Women’s Empowerment with Strong ICC EAP Presence

    DILI DAZZLES: Criiio Cricket Festival Ignites Women’s Empowerment with Strong ICC EAP Presence

    DILI DAZZLES: Criiio Cricket Festival Ignites Women’s Empowerment with Strong ICC EAP Presence

    DILI, TIMOR-LESTE – 13 November 2025 – The spirit of cricket shone brightly in Dili yesterday as the Timor-Leste Cricket Board (TLCB) successfully hosted the Criiio Cricket Festival on November 12, 2025. This vibrant event, dedicated to the crucial mission of empowering women through cricket in Timor-Leste, saw overwhelming enthusiasm and competitive play.

    Eight spirited local teams gathered, bringing energy and passion to the pitch, underscoring the rapid growth of the women’s game across the nation.

    Criiio Cricket Banner 2025
    Criiio Cricket Banner 2025

    ICC Commits to Grassroots Growth

    The Festival received significant support and recognition from the International Cricket Council (ICC) East Asia-Pacific (EAP) region, marked by the attendance of Emily O’Brien, the ICC EAP Finance & Operations Manager. Her presence in Dili highlighted the ICC’s dedication to developing cricket at the grassroots level in emerging associate nations.

    “The energy and commitment displayed here today are truly inspiring,” stated Ms. O’Brien. “The Criiio format is perfectly designed to make cricket accessible and fun for everyone. Seeing eight teams of talented women competing shows the tremendous groundwork being laid by the TLCB, and the ICC EAP is proud to support initiatives that link sport directly to empowerment and opportunity.”

    Fast-Paced Action Under the Sun

    The tournament structure was designed for maximum participation and excitement, ensuring all players were actively involved throughout the day. Eight teams competed in a thrilling round-robin format where every team played two intense 8-over matches.

    The adapted, fast-paced Criiio format, using lighter equipment and simplified rules, delivered several nail-biting finishes. The 8-over limit meant that every run, every wicket, and every diving stop was critical, encouraging strategic, aggressive, and highly visible teamwork. Highlights included powerful hitting, impressive boundary catches, and moments of brilliant sportsmanship, demonstrating the fast-improving skill level among the players.

    The TLCB extends its gratitude to all the participating teams, volunteers, and the ICC EAP for making the Criiio Cricket Festival a resounding success and a landmark event for women’s sport in Timor-Leste. The momentum generated from this festival promises a bright future for women’s cricket development in the country.

  • History Made in Bali: Sohail Father and Son Duo Represent Timor-Leste Against Indonesia 🏏🇹🇱

    History Made in Bali: Sohail Father and Son Duo Represent Timor-Leste Against Indonesia 🏏🇹🇱

    History Made in Bali: Sohail Father and Son Duo Represent Timor-Leste Against Indonesia 🏏🇹🇱

    Bali, Indonesia – November 8, 2025

    A truly historic and heartwarming moment unfolded in the world of international cricket today, as Timor-Leste fielded the first known father-son duo in an official T20 International (T20I) match. During the Bali Bash International T20 Rising East Tri-Series 2025, veteran player Muhammad Sohail Sattar (the father) took the field alongside his son, Muhammad Yahya Suhail (the son), representing the emerging cricket nation of Timor-Leste against the hosts, Indonesia.

    A Unique Milestone in T20I History

    The sight of both Sohail Sattar and his son Yahya Suhail sharing the international arena is a unique milestone, marking an incredible family story woven into the fabric of the sport. Sohail Sattar, a pivotal figure in Timor-Leste’s cricket journey, got the rare opportunity to mentor and play alongside his son, symbolizing the legacy and future of the game in the Southeast Asian nation.

    The duo were both named in the playing XI for the clash against Indonesia, a match in the series marking Timor-Leste’s early forays into the T20I format following their recent Associate Membership status.

    Performance in the Match

    While Timor-Leste struggled against a dominant Indonesian side, who secured a 10-wicket victory in the Match 4 fixture, the focus remained on the unique duo’s contribution.

    • Muhammad Yahya Suhail featured with the bat, staying out for a resilient 10 runs off 39 balls, demonstrating patience in a challenging innings.
    • Muhammad Sohail Sattar, a solid all-rounder for the team, played his part in the middle order and contributed his experience to a youthful side.

    The match, which saw Timor-Leste restricted to 59/9 in their 20 overs, will nonetheless be etched in the annals of cricketing history not for the result, but for the unprecedented family achievement it hosted.

    For Timor-Leste, which is rapidly building its cricket program, the joint appearance of the two Suhail’s underscores the deep family roots and passion driving the development of the sport. This moment serves as a powerful inspiration for aspiring cricketers across the country and the wider region.

  • A Warm Cricket Welcome: Indonesian Chairman Abhiram S. Yadav Greets TLCB Chairman and Timor-Leste Team Ahead of BBI Rising East Tri Series Debut

    A Warm Cricket Welcome: Indonesian Chairman Abhiram S. Yadav Greets TLCB Chairman and Timor-Leste Team Ahead of BBI Rising East Tri Series Debut

    A Warm Cricket Welcome: Indonesian Chairman Abhiram S. Yadav Greets TLCB Chairman and Timor-Leste Team Ahead of BBI Rising East Tri Series Debut

    Bali, Indonesia – November 6, 2025 – The spirit of regional sportsmanship shone brightly in Bali as the Timor-Leste national cricket team and their board chairman received a resounding welcome from the Chairman of the Indonesian Cricket Association (Persatuan Cricket Indonesia – PCI), Mr. Abhiram S. Yadav. The Dili delegation has arrived to participate in the highly anticipated BBI Rising East Tri Series 2025, a tournament set to promote cricket development across the region.

    The Timor-Leste contingent, led by the Chairman of the Timor-Leste Cricket Board (TLCB), touched down in Indonesia to high expectations as they prepare to take on host nation Indonesia in their first match later today.

    Inaugural Match and Regional Growth

    In a gesture underlining the strong cricketing ties between the two nations, Mr. Yadav extended his best wishes to the visiting team. “We are absolutely delighted to host the Chairman of the Timor-Leste Cricket Board and the national team for the BBI Rising East Tri Series,” Mr. Yadav stated. “Timor-Leste’s participation is a significant step, reflecting the growing passion for cricket in East Asia. We hope this tournament provides an excellent platform for their players to showcase their talent and gain valuable international experience.”

    The BBI Rising East Tri Series, which also features Myanmar, is designed to be a catalyst for cricket development in the region. The tournament will see all three nations compete in a round-robin format over the next week.

    Timor-Leste Ready for Action

    The Timor-Leste squad is set to plunge straight into action, playing their inaugural match of the series against the hosts, Indonesia, this afternoon at the Udayana Cricket Ground. The match is scheduled for 2:00 PM local time (Bali).

    “Our players are motivated and ready for the challenge,” commented a representative from the Timor-Leste delegation. “We are grateful for the warm Indonesian welcome and look forward to a competitive and exciting series. Playing against a strong side like Indonesia in our first fixture will be a crucial test of our team’s preparation and spirit.”

    All eyes from Dili and across the East Asia region will be on the Udayana Cricket Ground as Timor-Leste makes its mark on the regional cricketing stage. The results of today’s matches will be keenly awaited.

  • 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

    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.

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

    📰 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.

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

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

    🏏 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 SpotlightRole/Style
    Muhammad Yahya SuhailRHB, Right-Arm Medium
    Elias TilmanRHB, Right-Arm Fast
    Rahat KaziRHB, Right-Arm Fast
    Egidio PinheiroWicketkeeper (WK)

    Sl. No.First NameLast NameDisplay NameBatting StyleBowling Style
    1Muhammad YahyaSuhailYahyaRHBRIGHT-ARM MEDIUM
    2ArifHosenArif HosenRHBDOES NOT BOWL
    3MD RaihanHossainMD RaihanRHBRIGHT-ARM OFFBREAK
    4Muhammad SuhailSattarMuhammad SuhailRHBRIGHT-ARM FAST
    5EliasTilmanEliasRHBRIGHT-ARM FAST
    6MuhammadTayyeb JavedMuhammad Tayyeb JavedRHBDOES NOT BOWL
    7MD NazmulHudaNazmulRHBRIGHT-ARM MEDIUM
    8DomingosMendoncaDomingosRHBDOES NOT BOWL
    9Egidio Dos SantosPinheiroEgidioRHBWK
    10RahatKaziRahat KaziRHBRIGHT-ARM FAST
    11GoncaloFilipe CardosoGoncaloRHBRIGHT-ARM OFFBREAK
    12Rafael Dos SantosMoreiraRafaelRHBDOES 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.

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

    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.

    Escola Bidau Akadiri-Hun

    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.

  • Groundbreaking Development! Timor-Leste to Build National Cricket Academy in Aipelo, Liquisa

    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
    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.

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

    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.

    TeamTimorLesteCricket2025-11-5
    TeamTimorLesteCricket2025-11-5

    “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 NamePlayer Role
    1.Elias TilmanCaptain (C)
    2.Muhammad SuhailVice Captain (VC)
    3.AgidioWicket Keeper (WK)
    4.Rahat KaziPlayer
    5.Raihan HosainPlayer
    6.Muhammad YahyaPlayer
    7.Nazmul HudaPlayer
    8.GonsaloPlayer
    9.Domingos MendonçaPlayer
    10.Arif HosenPlayer
    11.RafaelPlayer

    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.