In a heartwarming display at Ahmedabad’s Narendra Modi Stadium, cricket legend Ravi Shastri joined forces with UNICEF India’s Chief of Field Services, Soledad Herrero, and two promising young athletes for a special ‘Trophy Walk’ ahead of the India-Netherlands match. This initiative, spearheaded by the International Cricket Council (ICC) and UNICEF, aimed to spotlight children’s rights through the power of sport, promoting inclusivity and equal opportunities for all kids.
Fifteen-year-old Rangi Niyati Mohanlal, a state pride with accolades from national and international competitions, and 14-year-old Rey Ankit Umashankar Bhai, an emerging cricket talent, carried the trophy with pride. Their participation symbolized hope and the boundless potential of youth when given a fair shot.
Speaking to the media, Soledad Herrero emphasized cricket’s role as a beacon of equality. ‘Cricket is a powerful tool for equality and inclusion,’ she said. ‘It reminds us that every child, everywhere, deserves a fair chance. We’re proud to partner with ICC for the Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, with a clear goal: championing every child’s right to play.’
Herrero delved deeper into sport’s transformative impact. ‘Play empowers the next generation. Kids learn, explore, and understand the world best through games. It builds critical thinking, problem-solving, teamwork, confidence, and emotional resilience.’ She stressed the need for safe spaces where children can experiment without fear, fostering a sense of belonging and growth.
The ICC and UNICEF issued a clarion call to communities worldwide: protect children’s right to play by creating safe play areas in schools, neighborhoods, and communities. This event builds on their ‘Cricket for Good’ partnership since 2015, which has amplified voices on hygiene, empowerment, education, and play rights, ensuring equal opportunities for boys and girls alike.
As the stadium buzzed with anticipation, this Trophy Walk served as a powerful reminder that cricket isn’t just a game—it’s a platform for global change, inspiring young minds to dream big and play free.