India women’s cricket captain Smriti Mandhana has been named a UNICEF India Celebrity Advocate, adding another significant role to her growing influence beyond the cricket field.
The announcement was made on October 11 on the occasion of the International Day of the Girl. In her new role, Mandhana will use her platform to promote the rights, safety, health, well-being and opportunities of adolescent girls.
The appointment comes shortly after she replaced Harmanpreet Kaur as India’s captain across formats.
UNICEF Highlights Mandhana’s Inspirational Journey
Mandhana has previously participated in UNICEF initiatives in collaboration with the ICC, and her influence on women’s sport played an important part in the new partnership.
UNICEF India representative Cynthia McCaffrey said Mandhana’s rise from an aspiring athlete to an international cricket star demonstrated what girls can achieve when provided with opportunities.
“Smriti’s journey from an aspiring young athlete to a global cricket icon demonstrates to girls what is possible when talent meets opportunity.”
McCaffrey added that UNICEF looks forward to working with Mandhana to help girls “learn, play, lead, and fulfill” their potential.
Mandhana: Every Child Deserves the Chance to Dream
Mandhana described the appointment as a major honour and reflected on how opportunities helped shape her own career.
“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.”
She added:
“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.”
Sachin Tendulkar Welcomes Mandhana
Cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar, UNICEF’s Regional Ambassador for South Asia, welcomed Mandhana to the organisation.
“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 has worked with UNICEF for years and became its Regional Ambassador for South Asia in 2013, supporting initiatives related to polio prevention, hygiene and sanitation.
Former India captain Mithali Raj has also previously participated in UNICEF campaigns and partnerships.
Another Milestone in Mandhana’s Career
Mandhana’s UNICEF appointment comes during an important period in her career. She was part of the India side that won the country’s maiden ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup title in 2025 and recently helped India claim the Asian Games 2026 gold medal.
In 2026, she became the leading run-scorer in women’s international cricket as well as women’s T20 internationals. The Arjuna Award recipient is also a two-time ICC Women’s Cricketer of the Year.
Her latest role will now allow Mandhana to extend her influence beyond cricket, using her profile to advocate for greater opportunities and support for children and adolescent girls across India.
