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Adam Gilchrist Gifts Bicycle to Child

Source: World Vision India - November 05, 2004

Adam Gilchrist, vice-captain of the Australian cricket team, endorsed World Vision's Child Sponsorship program as he gifted a bicycle to Mangesh, a 6-year old boy from the slums of Mumbai, at a small ceremony at the Taj Hotel last night.

Mangesh Ashok Rajput lives in a slum hut near Salve Nagar in Andheri. He studies in Std I in a municipal school, and is the middle sibling of three sons. His mother Anita works as a housemaid in 4 homes and earns about Rs. 1500/- per month. His father Ashok, died of T.B. about a year ago. Mangesh loves playing cricket.

"Twenty years ago my parents through World Vision, sponsored a child from Africa, and that began my long association with World Vision", Adam explained. "Today as I sponsor Mangesh, I am proud to be a World Vision ambassador".

Adam, his father and brother spent 30 minutes meeting Mangesh, talking to him thru a translator. When Adam asked him to demonstrate cricket strokes with the bat, Mangesh swung his little bat enthusiastically. "Watch that elbow position" warned father Gilchrist. "A future Aussie player?" questioned brother Gilchrist. "This is a wonderful moment, and the presence of my family here makes it a very special occasion for me", Adam enthused.

Adam also gifted his personal Australian colours to Mangesh saying, "This is the jersey and the cap I use while playing One-day matches. They are important to me and I am giving these to you as a special gift because you are important to me".

Adam then helped Mangesh onto the bicycle, and helped him to peddle around the room. Mangesh enjoyed the ride so much, he asked for more. So Adam Gilchrist, one of the most destructive batmen in contemporary cricket, helped little Mangesh to peddle out of the room, into the elevator, and all the way to the Taj lobby downstairs.

"Mangesh looks a bit overwhelmed by the occasion, but I see the potential in him and I'm sure that he will ride confidently into a bright future". "And I will watch proudly as this hope unfolds into reality" he affirmed.