ICC and UNICEF Launch 'Promise to Children' Campaign

New Delhi, Sep 29 (PTI): The International Cricket Council (ICC) and UNICEF have launched the 'Promise to Children' digital campaign in time for the ICC Women's Cricket World Cup 2025. This campaign calls on cricket fans, players, and audiences to commit to providing equal opportunities for all children, especially the most vulnerable.

Bollywood actor and UNICEF National Ambassador Ayushmann Khurrana, alongside Indian women's cricket team vice-captain Smriti Mandhana, are leading the initiative. The campaign seeks to harness cricket's widespread appeal to champion children's rights, including access to quality education, healthcare, nutrition, safe water, sanitation, and protection from violence, according to a UNICEF statement.

Jay Shah, Chairman of the ICC, stated, "ICC remains committed to providing equal opportunities for girls and boys around the world." He emphasized that through the Promise to Children campaign, the ICC and UNICEF aim to engage the cricket community, from coaches and players to fans, to improve the lives of children, ensuring they are healthy, nourished, educated, and able to play.

Cynthia McCaffrey, UNICEF India Representative, highlighted the partnership's potential, saying, "Nothing matches the power of cricket enjoyed by billions of fans. The UNICEF–ICC partnership is built on our collective commitment to creating equal opportunities for every girl and boy."

Actor Ayushmann Khurrana expressed his pride in being part of the initiative, emphasizing that "each promise, big or small, can contribute to real change and help build an equitable society." He noted that the Indian women's cricket team symbolizes the determination of girls striving for opportunities.

Smriti Mandhana echoed a similar sentiment, stating, "As a cricketer, I know how the sport is a great equalizer. Promise to Children is both a personal commitment and a collective responsibility to support children with access to a happy, healthy, and safe childhood."

The campaign will feature cricket clinics with children, roundtable discussions with former cricketers, and digital engagement with players and commentators. There will also be awareness drives across online and broadcast platforms during the World Cup, which will be hosted jointly by India and Sri Lanka, the statement concluded.

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