For a good cause: Australian soldiers in Timor-Leste defeated a UN team in a charity match in Dili. Photos by LS Kade Rogers.
THE International Stabilisation Force (ISF) defeated the UN in the inaugural cricket match held at Dili Stadium on July 22.
The hot sun of Timor-Leste beamed down on the Dili Stadium for an afternoon of friendly rivalry in which the ISF came out on top.
The team compiled 122 runs and dismissed the UN for 97 to record a nine-wicket victory.
Dili Stadium, somewhat different in aesthetics to the MCG, drew a steady crowd over the course of the afternoon. The vocal levels also increased as the game went down to the wire.
Capt Robert Ryan, ISF team skipper, said the players were stoked to win as they were the underdogs going into the match.
“We were up against the UN team, made up mainly of Indian and Pakistan players. So I think the odds were against us initially,” he said.
“It was hot out on the ground, and a competitive match, but I think we all played a great game and all in good spirits.
“It was a great outcome for the ISF to win on the day.”
The Head of the UN in Timor-Leste, Atul Khare, congratulated the winning team and thanked the ISF for all their efforts in assisting with the stabilisation of Timor-Leste.
“What you have done here today is just another example of how you are helping provide security to the Timorese people,” he said.
“People are relishing the fact that they can come out and enjoy these events without fear. Thank you to everyone.”
There was another side to the initiative of the cricket match and that was to raise funds for and awareness of the Mary McKillop Foundation, which provides support and practical assistance for orphans and children of Timor-Leste in the area of education.
Maj Michael Dawson, UN Liaison Officer, was the instigator of the initiative that has also involved the community of Townsville.
“The total amount of money raised was between $3100-$3200 here in Timor and in Townsville about $2000,” he said.
