What is ESA Day? Special initiative by Mumbai Indians in today's game against Lucknow Super Giants

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 match 45 between the Mumbai Indians (MI) and the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) at Wankhede Stadium will feature some special fans for the games, which is more than just cricket action. With Sunday's game, the team's unique tradition—Education and Sports for All (ESA) Day—will resume.  

This program demonstrates MI's continued dedication to using education and athletics to empower impoverished youngsters. The Reliance Foundation and MI collaborate on ESA Day. Every year, thousands of kids from different NGOs are invited to watch a live IPL match in this endearing event. ESA Day has been observed by the Mumbai Indians since 2023, however, they have long supported the cause.  

A special day. A special cause. A match full of heart. 💙

It's @ril_foundation #ESADay ✨#MumbaiIndians #PlayLikeMumbai #EducationAndSportsForAll #TATAIPL #MIvLSG pic.twitter.com/VUjkeFMZ6b

— Mumbai Indians (@mipaltan) April 27, 2025

The event is a part of the Education and Sports for All (ESA) campaign of the Mumbai Indians and the Reliance Foundation, RIL's corporate social responsibility division. MI invites children from NGOs around the city to attend a live match and support their favorite cricket players on this particular day. Under the auspices of the Reliance Foundation, Mumbai Indians have been supporting education and sports for underprivileged children via the ESA since 2010.

Approximately 19,000 children from various NGOS in Mumbai, including 200 children with special needs, will be able to attend the Mumbai Indians this year to support their favorite cricket players. The event is sponsored by the Reliance Foundation.  

Nita Ambai shares message ahead of MI vs LSG match

Mrs. Nita Ambani delivered a message for the MI players before this Sunday's Indian Premier League Match 45 between the Mumbai Indians and the Lucknow Super Giants. “People who have been with MI know our next game is very special, we have underprivileged children coming, and the energy is special. So please, put up your best show for them."

ESA Day is one of several themed matchdays in the IPL, other franchises include Rajasthan Royals having a "PinkPromise Match" and Royal Challengers Bengaluru presenting a "Go Green Day."  MI's ESA Day, on the other hand, is notable for its legacy and communal effect, bringing cricket's spirit closer to people who need it most.