Smriti Mandhana Named UNICEF Celebrity Advocate

UNICEF named Smriti Mandhana as celebrity advocate [Source: AFP]Smriti Mandhana was announced as UNICEF India’s celebrity advocate on Sunday, October 11. The honour for Mandhana comes on the occasion of the International Day of the Girl.This comes just days after the opening batter became India’s new captain across formats after Harmanpreet Kaur stepped down. Using her influence and stature, Mandhana will look to promote several important issues relating to young girls.UNICEF names Mandhana Celebrity AdvocateUNICEF India decided to make Smriti Mandhana its Celebrity Advocate, keeping in mind her impact on women's sports in India. The batter had recently become the leading run-scorer in Women's international cricket.Mandhana will promote safety, opportunities, health and well-being for adolescent girls. Previously, the player has also participated in several UNICEF events, in collaboration with the ICC."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," UNICEF India's Cynthia McCaffrey said while speaking about Smriti Mandhana.ALSO READMithali Raj Reacts To Harmanpreet Kaur’s Exit And Smriti Mandhana's Takeover As India Captain"We look forward to partnering with Smriti to help ensure every girl has the opportunity to learn, play, lead, and fulfill her potential," Cynthia McCaffrey concluded.Mandhana joins Sachin in the elite listSpeaking of the new and exciting opportunity, the 30-year-old southpaw looked back at her journey and highlighted the importance of hard-work and determintion. Furthermore, she noted how encouragment and opportunity can change lives.With this, Mandhana became the only third Indian cricketer to be officially associated with UNICEF. Only Sachin Tendulkar and former India Women's captain and trailblazer, Mithai Raj worked with them before.Sachin Tendulkar - UNICEF Regional Ambassador for South Asia;Smriti Mandhana - Celebrity Advocate, India;Mithali Raj - UNICEF campaign/partnership participant.Mandhana also recently played a crucial part in India's Asian Games 2026 title win, exhibiting her importance to the Indian team and larger women's sporting community in India currently.ALSO READWho Is Jharkhand Opener Shikhar Mohan, First Centurion Of Ranji Trophy 2026-27?