In a significant turn of events, Nepalese cricketer Sandeep Lamichhane has been acquitted of rape charges by the Nepal High Court, overturning a previous conviction by the Kathmandu District Court. This ruling, which came just ahead of the deadline for final squad submissions for the T20 World Cup, has potentially reshaped the trajectory of Lamichhane’s career.
The legal saga began with an accusation of assault by an 18-year-old woman dating back to 2022. Initially convicted in January and sentenced to eight years in prison, Lamichhane faced a turbulent period in his life and career. Alongside the conviction, he was mandated to pay compensation to the alleged victim. However, Lamichhane was later released on bail of Rs 2 million while awaiting the High Court’s final decision.
The recent acquittal by the Nepal High Court has not only cleared Lamichhane of all charges but also opened doors for his potential inclusion in Nepal’s T20 World Cup squad. Despite not being picked in the provisional squad, the final decision from the ICC is pending by May 25, and Lamichhane’s legal victory could sway the selectors in his favor.
The journey from accusation to acquittal has been arduous for Lamichhane. His participation in international cricket had been marked by controversy, illustrated vividly by the Scottish cricket team’s refusal to shake his hand during a match in February. This silent protest highlighted the ongoing debate surrounding Lamichhane’s presence in the ICC’s Cricket World Cup League 2 series, despite the legal proceedings.
With the High Court’s decision now in his favor, Lamichhane’s career prospects are looking significantly brighter. His remarkable talent as a leg-spinner has already earned him recognition on the global stage, and his exoneration from these charges could mark a new chapter in his career. As he looks ahead to potentially representing Nepal in the T20 World Cup, Lamichhane’s journey continues, filled with hope and the promise of redemption.
