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Smriti Mandhana gets another massive responsibility after being appointed as the India National Women's Team captain, replacing Harmanpreet Kaur. On Sunday, it has been learnt that UNICEF India has named Smriti as the Celebrity Advocate on the occasion of the International Day of the Girl.
The batter has worked previously for UNICEF India on multiple occasions, and she is well aware of their vision and work process. On the other hand, Smriti Mandhana needs an introduction; she is an icon of Indian cricket.
Smriti Mandhana gets a special role in UNICEF India
By announcing Mandhana as the Celebrity Advocate, the organization wants to take a step forward to motivate and support the young generation in their dreams. Mandhana will work for equal rights and opportunities for children and young people and will put in efforts to secure equal rights for girls.
The opener is honoured to get the special role in UNICEF India. As a well-established cricketer, Mandhana realized that every dream requires support and opportunity. If one can keep working hard and keep the determination intact, a single opportunity can turn the dream into reality. Smriti Mandhana, in her statement, further mentioned that every child and young person deserves opportunities to fulfill their dreams.
"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. 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," Mandhana said.
Why does UNICEF India choose Smriti Mandhana as Celebrity Advocate?
UNICEF India Representative Cynthia McCaffrey mentioned that Mandhana is an ideal example of what talent can become when it meets with opportunities. To ensure opportunity to learn, play, lead, and fulfill the potential of every young girl, the organization has formed a tie-up with the Indian cricket superstar.
"Smriti's journey from an aspiring young athlete to a global cricket icon demonstrates to girls what is possible when talent meets opportunity. At a time when India is home to the world's largest generation of children and young people, investing in girls' rights, leadership, and wellbeing is a nation's smartest investment. We look forward to partnering with Smriti to help ensure every girl has the opportunity to learn, play, lead, and fulfill her potential," said UNICEF India Representative Cynthia McCaffrey.
Smriti Mandhana remains instrumental for Team India
The Indian cricket board (BCCI) appointed Mandhana as the national cricket team captain soon after the departure of Harmanpreet Kaur as the team leader. The changes in the team's leadership role came weeks after winning the gold medals at the 2026 Asian Games.
Under the leadership of Harmanpreet Kaur, the Indian women's cricket team won the gold medals at the women's cricket event in Japan. Smriti Mandhana played a crucial role in the triumph. She was instrumental in India's first-ever ICC Women's Cricket World Cup title-winning run in 2025 as well.
