IPL 2023: There may be Jhulan or Harman in the stands, says Nita Ambani as 19,000 girls witness MI-KKR clash
MUMBAI, April 16 (IANS) India’s Mumbai IPL 2023 match against Kolkata Knight Riders on Sunday saw over 19,000 girls from all over Mumbai at the Wankidi Stadium, cheering on the players throughout the match, and lighting up the stands with their enthusiasm and energy with every bound and gate taken by the home team, creating a memory that will stay with them as well as the players for years to come.
Ishan Kishan hit a half-century as Suryakumar returned to form to nullify an impressive 104 from 51 deliveries by Venkatesh Iyer and help Mumbai defeat Kolkata by five wickets to record their second win of the season.
“I am so exhausted. Look at the energy, excitement and enthusiasm on the field. ESA matches are always special. This year, we have 19,000 girls in the stadium from different NGOs. Many of them are watching a live cricket match for the first time.” said Nita Ambani, President and Owner of Reliance Foundation Mumbai Indians, during the game, it’s a very emotional day for all of us, in a special ‘ESADay’ dedicated to the little girl,
Today’s match is about celebrating women in sport. I wanted to highlight girls’ right to education and sports. I hope all these girls and those who watch TV have the courage to follow their dreams and achieve what they want. That’s why we’re calling all of them today to just feel inspired and take a lot of courage back home.”
She stated that some of the girls in the stands today could be the stars of tomorrow.
“There may be a Jhulan here or a Harmanpreet here, not just a cricketer but a future superstar of any sport. They can be achievers on the world stage and win accolades for India,” she said.
At the draw, Suryakumar Yadav was accompanied by Harmanpreet Kaur, captain of the Indian women’s team and captain of the WPL’s Mumbai Indians, who was there to support this special match, celebrating women in sports.
The Mumbai Indians wore a special jersey for the game – the Mumbai Indians WPL jersey, to show their support and make a strong statement, both nationally and internationally, drawing attention to the right to education and sport for girls.
Nita Ambani, who has been a vocal supporter on the borderline for MI matches, also joined the girls in the stands, watching the match with them. Young girls are seen talking to her.
Speaking about their interactions, she said, “It was really special. The girls were so excited and thankful. I wish them well and God bless each of them. More power to the girls.”
In addition to Harman, the members of the Mumbai Indians women’s team who won the inaugural WPL season were also present, cheering and celebrating their love of cricket and the support of the girls from across the field.
– Jans
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