Nepal's Sandeep Lamichhane could make T20 World Cup squad after rape conviction overturned
- Planet Sport writer
- 15 May 2024
Nepal's record wicket-taker Sandeep Lamichhane could feature at next month's T20 World Cup after his rape conviction was overturned by an appeal court.
Lamichhane was handed an eight-year prison sentence in January but the Kathmandu Post has reported that his guilty verdict has been overturned by the Patan High Court.
The original decision was taken by the Kathmandu District Court and was subject to appeal by Lamichhane's representatives.
Sabita Bhadari Baral, a lawyer for the player, told Reuters: "He had to be cleared and the high court has set him free. He was not guilty."
A jubilant Lamichhane appeared at the court premises after the verdict. His supporters blew traditional musical pipes and beat drums to celebrate.
But his continued playing career has also lead to anger and caused numerous Nepalese to disavow the team.
The 23-year-old, who is the country's highest-profile cricketer, last played for Nepal in November but could be drafted into the squad for the global tournament ahead of the International Cricket Council's (ICC's) 25 May deadline.
Nepal have been drawn in Group D for the T20 World Cup, facing South Africa, Bangladesh, the Netherlands and Sri Lanka.
