Since 2016, UNICEF and ICC have used cricketing events as a platform to raise awareness of child rights through which they aim to improve the lives of children across the world. As the World Cup was being hosted in India, representatives from the UNICEF (Maharashtra) office got in touch with CSA through its Project Coordinator of Dharavi Island to send a couple of children from its Bal Sabhas for a specially organized event titled “One Day for Children” at Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.

Two children belonging to the Bal Sabha facilitated by our partner Prerna Seva Kendra Dongri were chosen for this event. On November 2, 2023, the children accompanied by the centre staff first met with Cynthia McCaffrey, Representative, UNICEF India. They discussed their experience of being a part of the Bal Sabha, their rights as children and their love for cricket.

Photo by Alex Davidson-ICC/ICC via Getty Images

After this discussion which was held at a different location, they proceeded to Wankhede Stadium, where they met up with the UNICEF South Asia Regional Ambassador Sachin Tendulkar and Sri Lankan cricketing icon, Muttiah Muralitharan.  With Sachin holding the ICC trophy, the children accompanied him and the other dignitaries to the stadium where the trophy was placed.

Sitting in the pavilion with the dignitaries and other cricket personalities, they got an opportunity to watch the cricket match between India and Sri Lanka live and speak about child rights and cricket with them.

 Children’s Experience:

Tinku Yadav:

Through my Bal Sabha, I got this unique opportunity to participate in the One Day for Children event organized through the partnership between ICC and UNICEF. I walked with two famous cricketers, our very own Sachin Tendulkar and Sri Lankan cricketer Muttiah Muralitharan. I felt proud and happy walking with them to the stadium to place the trophy. Earlier I used to see Sachin Tendulkar only on TV, but on that day, I was with him, not only walking together but also interacting with him. It is only because of being a part of Bal Sabha that I got a chance to represent children at the event. I am thankful to UNCIEF and CSA for this amazing opportunity.

Eugine Nunes:

It was an unbelievable and unforgettable moment for me to interact with two famous cricketers. I was very happy and excited to meet them and talk to them about child rights and the right to play. I will cherish this memory forever.