The International Cricket Council and UNICEF have joined hands to amplify the Promise to Children digital campaign during the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 to be played in India and Sri Lanka. The campaign calls on cricket fans, audiences and players to join hands with UNICEF and create equal opportunities for all children, especially the most vulnerable.
Supported by UNICEF National Ambassador and Bollywood star Ayushmann Khurrana and Indian women’s cricket vice-captain, Smriti Mandhana, the initiative builds on the power of cricket to inspire people to commit to children’s rights, including access to quality education, healthcare, nutrition, safe water, sanitation and protection from violence.
ICC Chairman Mr. Jay Shah said: “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. Through the Promise to Children campaign, ICC and UNICEF together will engage the broader cricketing community through collaborations with coaches, cricketers and cricketing personalities to advance the rights of every child.”
UNICEF India Representative Cynthia McCaffrey said: “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. It inspires the nation with one united call to action – to make a Promise to Children.”
UNICEF India National Ambassador Ayushmann Khurrana said: “I’m glad to be a part of UNICEF’s Promise to Children digital campaign, supported by the International Cricket Council. For me, the Indian women’s cricket team reflects the determination and commitment of girls and their families who understand the power of ‘Promise to Children.’ Each promise, big or small, can contribute to real change and contribute to building an equitable society.”
India vice-captain Smriti Mandhana said: “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.”
The partnership during the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup will also feature cricket clinics with children and participating team, roundtable discussions with legends of the game, stakeholders, and campaign messages through digital channels, players, commentators and TV spots.
Cricket fans are encouraged to join ICC and UNICEF online platforms to learn more and make their Promise to Children https://india.unicef.org/icc-wcwc
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