Nepal national cricket team’s star spinner Sandeep Lamichhane has decided to withdraw his name from Nepal’s upcoming series. Team Nepal is set to play a tri-series against UAE and Hong Kong on home soil from October 18 to 27 in preparation for the ICC T20 World Cup Asian Region Qualifier.
Lamichhane has used his official social media platform to make a formal announcement about his choice. In his statement, he conveys “With a heavy heart, I have decided to withdraw my name from the upcoming tournament. I have been going through difficult and challenging times of my life and I realise I need to revitalise myself and needed family time. I want to express my gratitude for all the blessings and wishes I have received thus far. Thank you everyone. Until we meet again”
Lamichhane had initially been planning to withdraw from the Asian Games, but in a last-minute decision, he chose to board a flight to China.
A police complaint was registered against Lamichhane for an allegation of raping a 17-year-old minor on September 6, 2022. Lamichhane was taken into custody on October 6 after his arrival in Nepal.
On January 12 He was released on a NRs. 20 lakhs (Rs. 2 million/ USD 15,300) bail by the Patan High Court on Thursday. Following the release, his suspension was revoked and he was back in the team.
The conclusive verdict in the mentioned case is still pending. Sandeep’s hearing is awaiting resolution in the District Court of Kathmandu. He has managed to continue representing the Nepali team due to the consistent postponement of the hearing.
This raises uncertainty about his inclusion in the coming crucial series as well. Nepal will host a crucial T20 World Cup Asian Region Qualifier from October 30 to November 6. Nepal will compete against other seven Asian teams on its home turf. The tournament’s stakes are high, as the top two teams will secure a spot in the 2024 T20 World Cup.
