ICC T20 World Cup: Sandeep Lamichhane to play against South Africa, Bangladesh

Former Nepali national cricket team captain Sandeep Lamichhane is to play two matches in the ongoing ICC T20 World Cup in the West Indies.

Issuing a statement on Monday, Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN) Secretary Paras Khadka informed that Lamichhane had already left for West Indies and will play matches against South Africa and Bangladesh.

Earlier, the CAN had released Sandeep from suspension of all kinds of domestic and international cricket activities since May 1.

After being acquitted by the Patan high court's verdict in the rape case, the CAN had also lifted suspension imposed on him from cricket activities.

Lamichhane has been included in the Nepali team keeping young bowler Pratish GC as a 'traveling reserve', Khadka said.  

"Lamichhane will perform in Nepal's two matches against South Africa and Bangladesh in the West Indies in coordination with the ICC," the press release stated.

The 2024 Cricket World Cup is being played in the USA and the West Indies. Nepal who lost their first match against the Netherlands in the US will play their second match against Sri Lanka in the US on June 12.

Nepal’s leg-spinner Lamichhane could play matches in the USA as he was denied visa by the US Embassy.

After the match, the Nepali team will reach the West Indies to play against South Africa and Bangladesh.