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Lamichhane Denied US Visa -Throws Nepal’s T20 World Cup Plans into Disarray

Acquittal Offered Hope, Visa Denial Dashes It

Nepal’s star leg-spinner, Sandeep Lamichhane, had his dreams of participating in the upcoming T20 World Cup abruptly halted after being denied a US visa. Lamichhane’s recent acquittal of rape charges by the Patan High Court seemed to clear the path for his return to the cricketing world. However, the US visa denial throws a major curveball, leaving his inclusion in the final squad hanging in the balance.

Troubled Past, Uncertain Future: Lamichhane Denied US Visa

This isn’t Lamichhane’s first brush with legal troubles. Back in 2022, he faced a rape accusation, leading to a conviction and suspension by the Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN). However, the recent high court verdict overturned that conviction, clearing him to play again. Now, a new hurdle has emerged in the form of his US visa denial, jeopardizing his participation in the T20 World Cup.

A Blow to Nepal’s T20 World Cup Hopes

Lamichhane’s absence from the squad after being denied US Visa would be a significant blow to Nepal’s T20 World Cup aspirations. He was a crucial player in their qualification for the tournament, leading the team in wickets during the T20 World Cup Asia Qualifiers. With the deadline for submitting final squads fast approaching, the Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN) has yet to comment on their next steps.

Preparations Continue Despite Lamichhane being Denied US Visa

Despite the uncertainty surrounding Lamichhane, Nepal’s provisional squad is already undergoing training in the Caribbean. They have scheduled warm-up matches against Canada and the USA before the main event kicks off.

Lamichhane’s Return and Lingering Controversy

Lamichhane’s return to cricket following his acquittal was met with mixed reactions. Rights groups in Nepal expressed concerns, and some opposition players refused to acknowledge him during matches. The controversy surrounding Lamichhane being Denied US Visa adds another layer of complexity to an already challenging situation for Nepal’s T20 World Cup campaign.

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