India women's cricket captain Smriti Mandhana has been named a celebrity advocate by UNICEF India. The organisation is set to use her influence to promote children's rights and equal opportunities for adolescent girls.
The announcement was made on Sunday, October 11, to mark the International Day of the Girl, which highlights girls' rights, safety, leadership and potential.
In her new role, Mandhana will support initiatives aimed at improving adolescent girls' health and well-being while helping them access opportunities to learn, play and lead.
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The appointment adds a new responsibility to a significant week for the star batter, who was named India's women's cricket captain earlier this week after Harmanpreet Kaur stepped down from the role.
Smriti Mandhana Shares Message After UNICEF Appointment
Reacting to her appointment, Mandhana expressed her gratitude and highlighted how her journey in cricket had taught her the importance of opportunity, hard work and encouragement.
"I am deeply honoured to join UNICEF India as a Celebrity Advocate. Growing up playing cricket taught me that every dream begins with an opportunity.
"With hard work, determination, and encouragement, that opportunity can turn into something extraordinary. Every child and young person deserves the chance to dream big and reach their full potential," Mandhana said.
Through the association, the left-handed batter will build on her previous involvement in initiatives promoting equal rights and opportunities for children and young people. She has also supported campaigns by UNICEF and the International Cricket Council focusing on gender equality and life skills.
Sachin Tendulkar Welcomes Mandhana To UNICEF India
Cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar welcomed Mandhana to the UNICEF India family, praising her influence on and off the field.
"Welcome to the @UNICEFIndia family, @mandhana_smriti! You inspire millions on the field, and I know you will be a brilliant voice for children's rights off it," Tendulkar wrote on X.
Tendulkar serves as UNICEF's Regional Ambassador for South Asia and has been associated with the organisation for more than a decade, supporting initiatives related to children's rights, healthcare and education.
Mandhana now takes on the advocacy role alongside her responsibilities as India's newly appointed women's cricket captain.