Sachin Tendulkar Welcomes Smriti Mandhana to UNICEF India Family, Calls Her a ‘Brilliant Voice for Children’s Rights’

Cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar on Sunday welcomed India women’s cricket captain Smriti Mandhana to the UNICEF India family after her appointment as the organisation’s celebrity advocate on the occasion of the International Day of the Girl Child.

Tendulkar, who serves as UNICEF Ambassador for South Asia, praised Mandhana’s influence both on and off the cricket field, expressing confidence that she would help amplify the cause of children’s rights.

“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.

Mandhana’s appointment is intended to strengthen efforts to protect children’s rights and promote equal opportunities for girls, particularly in sports. In her new role, she will support initiatives focused on empowering adolescent girls, promoting their health and well-being, and helping them realise their full potential.

Observed to highlight girls’ rights, safety, potential and leadership, the International Day of the Girl Child also draws attention to the barriers that continue to limit their choices and opportunities.

Mandhana said she was honoured to join UNICEF India, emphasising the importance of access to opportunities and encouragement in helping children pursue their ambitions.

“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,” she said.

The left-handed batter has previously supported UNICEF-ICC campaigns promoting gender equality and life skills, as well as UNICEF’s Promise to Children campaign. Her new role will build on these efforts, with particular emphasis on ensuring that girls have equal opportunities to participate in sports and develop their abilities.

UNICEF India Representative Cynthia McCaffrey said Mandhana’s journey could inspire young girls by showing what they can achieve when talent is supported by opportunity.

“Smriti’s journey from an aspiring young athlete to a global cricket icon demonstrates to girls what is possible when talent meets opportunity. At a time when India is home to the world’s largest generation of children and young people, investing in girls’ rights, leadership, and wellbeing is a nation’s smartest investment. We look forward to partnering with Smriti to help ensure every girl has the opportunity to learn, play, lead, and fulfill her potential,” McCaffrey said.