Nepal leg-spinner Sandeep Lamichhane is set to miss the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024, as his US visa application has been rejected for the second time.
Lamichhane’s first visa application was denied last week. Following this, the Nepali government and the Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN) intervened to support him. Despite their best efforts, his application was rejected once again.
Lamichhane had faced suspension from both international and domestic cricket after initially being found guilty of rape charges. However, following a favourable verdict, he was reinstated and cleared to play.
The CAN stated that despite taking necessary initiatives with various organisations, including a diplomatic note from the government of Nepal, the US Embassy has expressed its inability to grant Lamichhane travel permission to participate in the World Cup.
Nepal to start campaign on June 4
Nepal will face the Netherlands in their opening match of the tournament on June 4. Their group also includes South Africa, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka, with Nepal playing their final group game on June 17.
This will be Nepal’s second appearance at the T20 World Cup. In 2014, Nepal participated in the initial group stage for qualification to the Super 10s, finishing second in their group with two wins out of three matches.
The 9th edition of T20 World Cup, co-hosted by the United States and the West Indies, will commence on June 1.
