Nepali cricketer Sandeep Lamichhane had his conviction and eight-year sentence for rape overturned on appeal, allowing him to resume his career. The 23-year-old was accused of raping a young woman in a Kathmandu hotel in 2022 but was granted bail and continued playing while awaiting trial. Even though he was suspended by Nepal’s cricket association after his conviction, Lamichhane received immense support from fans and has now been cleared to play both domestically and internationally.
Lamichhane expressed his gratitude for the support he received during the challenging time and vowed to take Nepal’s cricket to new heights. The Cricket Association of Nepal announced that he is free to resume his career, just in time for the Twenty20 World Cup in the United States and West Indies. Despite the controversy surrounding him, Lamichhane has consistently denied the charges and maintained strong public support, with fans celebrating his exoneration outside the court after the verdict was announced.
Having been a key figure in raising the profile of cricket in Nepal, Lamichhane’s success as a leg-spinner elevated the sport’s popularity in the country. His arrest in 2022 initially led to his dismissal as national captain, but he continued to play for the national team following his release on bail. However, his inclusion in the team has caused division among Nepalis, with some voicing their disapproval, including the Scotland cricket team who refused to shake hands with him during an international tournament in Dubai.
Cricket may not be as widely celebrated in Nepal as in other South Asian countries, but the sport has been gaining traction, with Nepal receiving one-day international status in 2018. Lamichhane’s involvement in lucrative leagues around the world has played a significant role in this growth, starting with his selection in the Indian Premier League in 2018. Despite the ups and downs in his career, Lamichhane remains a highly sought-after cricketer and a symbol of hope for Nepali cricket fans.
