ICC and UNICEF team up for child rights campaign during Women’s World Cup 2025
The International Cricket Council (ICC) and UNICEF have joined forces to amplify the Promise to Children digital campaign during the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025, to be hosted in India and Sri Lanka. The initiative urges cricket fans, players, and stakeholders to advocate for equal opportunities for all children, especially the most vulnerable.
The campaign is supported by UNICEF India National Ambassador and Bollywood actor Ayushmann Khurrana, and India women’s cricket team vice-captain Smriti Mandhana, both of whom bring their influence to spread awareness and drive action around children’s rights.
Cricket as a platform for equality and opportunity
The Promise to Children campaign leverages the global reach and emotional power of cricket to promote access to quality education, healthcare, nutrition, sanitation, and protection from violence. ICC and UNICEF aim to connect fans, coaches, players, and other cricketing figures to support a more equitable future for every child.
ICC Chairman Jay Shah commented:
“ICC remains committed to providing equal opportunities for girls and boys around the world. We are delighted to partner with UNICEF and invest in initiatives that will improve the lives of all children, supporting them to stay healthy, nourished, educated, and play.”
Ambassadors champion the cause
UNICEF India Representative Cynthia McCaffrey emphasized the power of cricket in uniting people for social change:
“Nothing matches the power of cricket enjoyed by billions of fans. The UNICEF-ICC partnership builds on a joint commitment to create equal opportunities for every girl and boy.”
Ayushmann Khurrana said the campaign symbolizes how small actions can make a big difference:
“Each promise, big or small, can contribute to real change and contribute to building an equitable society.”
Smriti Mandhana also lent her voice:
“As a cricketer, I know how the sport is a great equalizer. Promise to Children is a powerful campaign that can be a personal commitment and a collective responsibility to support children with access to a happy, healthy and safe childhood.”
Activities planned during Women’s World Cup 2025
The Promise to Children campaign will feature a series of interactive and educational events throughout the Women’s Cricket World Cup, including:
- Cricket clinics with participating teams and children
- Roundtable discussions with cricket legends and stakeholders
- Digital messages amplified via players, commentators, and TV broadcasts
Fans can join the movement and make their own Promise to Children by visiting UNICEF’s campaign platform.
Together, ICC and UNICEF are using cricket’s global platform to create a lasting impact for children everywhere.
