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.

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.