The Nepalese government and cricket authorities intervened on behalf of Sandeep Lamichhane, Nepal’s top leg-spinner, after his visa application to the United States was denied for the second time. However, despite their efforts, the U.S. Embassy ultimately denied Lamichhane travel permission to play in the Twenty20 World Cup.
The Cricket Association of Nepal released a statement confirming the news that they had taken all necessary actions but were unable to secure the required visa for the national player. This setback comes after Lamichhane’s recent suspension by the cricket association following allegations of rape in 2022. He was convicted in January but later acquitted on appeal due to lack of evidence, leading to his reinstatement as a player.
Nepal is set to kick off their T20 World Cup campaign against the Netherlands on June 7 in Dallas, followed by a match against Sri Lanka in Lauderhill, Florida on June 11. The team will then head to the West Indies for their remaining group stage games. Unfortunately, Lamichhane will not be able to join his team on this journey due to visa complications.
