ICC Cricket For Good and Team Swachh cricket clinics become a source of joy

On 10th March, something spectacular happened at the HPCA Dharamsala stadium. No, it was not a cricket match ... It was the initiation of really exciting clinics where cricket teams interacted with kids, coaching them on cricket and also sharing the important message of hygiene and sanitation.

It was heartening to see the Netherlands, Ireland and Bangladesh players taking time out of their hectic practice schedules to spend time with children and share with them the joy of cricket. The practice nets were full of energy and laughter as the kids played with the cricketers. The coaches of all teams were actively involved and innovated to create fun games for children. The girls especially relished the experience as they don't usually play cricket at home. The excitement on their faces was palpable as they were guided by the cricketers and went on to score sixes and fours and even take wickets.

The game was followed by a short interaction where the UNICEF representative explained Team Swachh as the movement that everyone needs to be a part of emphasizing that children are the change makers who will take this message far and wide. The players reiterated this by sharing that only when one maintains hygiene and sanitation can one be healthy to play and compete in a sport.

What was most touching was the comment of young boy at the clinic who shared "I could never have dreamt of this opportunity. To play cricket with the best cricket players in the world. I thank ICC and UNICEF. I learnt how to improve my game and how I need to ensure that my surroundings and I am swachh so I can play more cricket ". This was only the beginning. Over the next two weeks, players from 13 more participating teams will interact with children in different venue cities.