Ahmedabad, February 18 The UNICEF-ICC partnership on Wednesday highlighted children's empowerment and their right to play, during the ongoing Men's T20 World Cup.
Soledad Herrero, Chief of Field Services, UNICEF India, along with two young athletes from Ahmedabad, participated in a "trophy walkout" at the start of the India-Netherlands match at the Narendra Modi Stadium.
"Cricket is a powerful force for equity and inclusion. It reminds us that every child, everywhere, deserves a fair chance. UNICEF is proud to partner with the International Cricket Council (ICC) during the Men's T20 World Cup 2026, with the simple objective of 'enhancing children's rights to play'," said Soledad while interacting with the media before the trophy walkout.
"Play empowers the next generation. The best way for children to learn, explore, and understand the world is through play. Play also provides a space for them to develop critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and interpersonal skills, while boosting their confidence and emotional regulation," she said.
Emphasizing the importance of safe spaces for children, she pointed out that "feeling safe allows children to explore, to try, to fail, and try again. When there is play without fear, there is learning without anxiety, and a space to nurture confidence and a sense of belonging."
Two promising young athletes from the city, 15-year-old Rangi Niyati Mohanlal and 14-year-old Ray Ankit Umashankarbhai, also participated in the trophy walk, amplifying the message of 'right to play'.
While Rangi has brought glory to the state in various national and international competitions, Ankit is a promising young cricketer.
UNICEF and the ICC have been working together for over a decade through the "Cricket for Good" initiative, using the reach of the sport to support children's rights and well-being.
Over the years, the partnership has helped address issues that matter in every child's life, from sanitation, empowerment, education, and the right to play, ensuring that both girls and boys have the opportunities they deserve.