COLOMBO : The England Women’s Cricket Team joined young girls from 12 districts on Sunday, 12
October for an outreach event at the Sinhalese Sports Club in Colombo. The programme
organised by Child Action Lanka and the British High Commission showcased the
transformative power of sport to empower girls and strengthen communities whilst
highlighting the enduring ties between the UK and Sri Lanka.
The England Women’s cricket squad spent time with the girls from while they were in Sri
Lanka for their fixtures in the Women’s Cricket World Cup currently being held in India
and Sri Lanka. During the programme, England players spent time with girls from Child
Action Lanka’s island-wide network through net sessions and mini-games, sharing skills,
stories and encouragement. The event underscored the UK’s commitment to diversity
and inclusion in sport whilst showcasing Child Action Lanka’s vital work creating
opportunities for vulnerable children across Sri Lanka.
Danni Wyatt-Hodge, from the England Women’s Team said:
“We’re delighted to be in Sri Lanka not just to compete, but to connect with young people
who share our passion for cricket”. “Sport has the power to give every girl the confidence
to dream big, and we hope today shows that those dreams are absolutely within reach.”
Debbie Edirisinghe, Founder and Director of Child Action Lanka, said:
“We are thrilled to welcome the England Women’s Cricket Team to meet our girls. Sport
is such a powerful tool for building confidence and life skills in vulnerable young people.
This event demonstrates how cricket can bring communities together and inspire our girls
to believe in their potential, both on and off the field.”
Child Action Lanka supports disadvantaged children across Sri Lanka through holistic
education, health and nutrition programmes, and child protection services. Sport forms
a crucial part of their work, with the participating girls already engaged in cricket activities
organised by the charity
