In a significant blow to the Nepal cricket team, star leg-spinner Sandeep Lamichhane has been denied a US visa for the second time, just days before the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024.

Background on Sandeep Lamichhane

Sandeep Lamichhane has been a beacon of hope and pride for Nepal cricket. Rising to prominence with his exceptional spin bowling, Lamichhane has played in various international leagues, making a name for himself as one of the most promising young talents in cricket. Recently, he was cleared of rape charges, allowing him to focus on cricket once again.

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Visa Denial Incident

Lamichhane had a visa interview scheduled for 4 pm on Thursday, May 30. Despite the efforts of Nepal’s Sports Minister Biraj Bhakta Shrestha and coordination with the US embassy by the Foreign Minister, Lamichhane’s visa application was rejected. This rejection means he will miss the T20 World Cup, scheduled to be held in the West Indies and USA from June 2 to 29.

Nepal’s T20 World Cup 2024 Campaign

Rohit Paudel will lead a young Nepal side at the marquee event. The team has been preparing diligently, with key players rewarded for their performances in the ACC Premier Cup in Oman. It matches against a West Indies A side in Kirtipur. Their first match is against the Netherlands on June 4 in Texas.

Protest In Nepal

The visa denial has sparked outrage among Nepal cricket fans. Thousands took to the streets of Kathmandu to protest against the US decision, highlighting the deep emotional and cultural connection between the fans and their cricket team. Social media has been flooded with messages of support for Lamichhane and disappointment over the visa rejection.

Nepal squad: Rohit Paudel (c), Aasif Sheikh, Anil Kumar Sah, Kushal Bhurtel, Kushal Malla, Dipendra Singh Airee, Lalit Rajbanshi, Karan KC, Gulshan Jha, Sompal Kami, Pratis GC, Sundeep Jora, Abinash Bohara, Sagar Dhakal, Kamal Singh Airee