Young Champions Join UNICEF for Trophy Walk at T20 World Cup Match

Mumbai: Two young sports champions from Mumbai joined UNICEF India at the ceremonial Trophy Walkout during the Zimbabwe-West Indies ICC Men’s T20 World Cup match at Wankhede Stadium on

February 23, 2026. The initiative, led by UNICEF India Representative Cynthia McCaffrey, highlighted children’s Right to Play under the long-standing Cricket for Good partnership between UNICEF and the International Cricket Council (ICC).

The ceremonial walkout took place at the iconic Wankhede Stadium ahead of the Zimbabwe-West Indies fixture of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup. Thirteen-year-old Ayush Narsighlal Ram and 12-year-old Riya Devnarayan Tripathy joined Cynthia McCaffrey on the field, symbolizing the role of sport in inspiring children and amplifying their voices on a global platform.

UNICEF and the International Cricket Council have partnered since 2015 through the Cricket for Good initiative, leveraging cricket’s global appeal to advance children’s rights and well-being. Over the years, the collaboration has raised awareness on issues ranging from sanitation and education to empowerment and the right to play, with a focus on ensuring equal opportunities for girls and boys.

Speaking on the occasion, McCaffrey said, “UNICEF and the International Cricket Council share a deep commitment under the ‘Cricket for Good’ partnership that aims to inspire positive change for children. Over the past decade, our partnership has helped reach millions. This year we focus on one powerful message — ‘Cheer for Children’ to champion every child’s Right to Play.

“This is truly a special moment for children interacting with cricket champions and join the Trophy Walk demonstrating inclusion, equality, hope and support for all children. ‘Cheer for Children’ sends a unifying call to millions in India who are passionate about cricket; and urges them to support children’s right to play, to learn, and to grow up safe,” said Cytnhia McCaffrey, UNICEF India Representative.

“Play builds resilience, leadership, collaboration and confidence — the very skills girls and boys need to succeed in school, in life and at work. When we invest in play today, we invest in a skilled, empowered generation for tomorrow,” added McCaffrey.

The Trophy Walk also gave young athletes an opportunity to share their personal experiences of sport. Speaking after the walkout, Ayush said, “Walking out with the trophy made me feel proud and confident. Sport has taught me discipline and teamwork, and I want every child to get the same chance.”

Riya added, “Playing sports makes me feel confident and free. It teaches me that girls belong on the field just as much as anyone else, and that we should never stop dreaming big.”

The event builds on the momentum generated during the ICC Women's World Cup, where UNICEF’s Promise to Children campaign recorded strong engagement through digital outreach, player-led messaging and on-ground activations. In 2026, the UNICEF-ICC partnership will continue to harness cricket’s global platform to position children at the centre of sport-led social change initiatives.

Through its ongoing collaboration with the ICC, UNICEF aims to reinforce the message that investing in children’s well-being is a shared responsibility. Working across more than 190 countries and territories, the organization continues to advocate for the protection of every child’s rights, particularly the most disadvantaged, ensuring they have the opportunity to survive, thrive and fulfil their potential.