Smriti Mandhana named UNICEF India Celebrity Advocate on International Day of the Girl

Smriti Mandhana was appointed UNICEF India's Celebrity Advocate on Sunday to mark the International Day of the Girl. The India women's captain will support initiatives promoting adolescent girls' health, well-being and participation in sports.

Sachin Tendulkar, UNICEF Ambassador for South Asia, welcomed her on X and said she would be a strong voice for children's rights. Mandhana said growing up in cricket taught her that opportunity combined with hard work and encouragement can turn dreams into reality.

UNICEF India Representative Cynthia McCaffrey said Mandhana's journey from aspiring athlete to international cricketer can inspire girls across the country. Mandhana has previously supported UNICEF-ICC campaigns on gender equality and life skills.