Nepal Cricketer Sandeep Lamichhane Acquitted of Rape Charges by High Court

Nepalese cricketer Sandeep Lamichhane has been acquitted of rape charges by the Patan High Court after challenging a previous conviction handed down by a district court earlier this year.

Bimal Parajuli, spokesperson for the Patan High Court, confirmed that the court overturned the district court’s decision, clearing Lamichhane of the allegations. The case involved Lamichhane being accused of sexual assault against an 18-year-old woman in a hotel in Kathmandu.

Reports suggest that the leg-spinner is now likely to be included in Nepal‘s squad for the upcoming ICC Men's T20 World Cup after his acquittal, with the deadline for squad changes set by the International Cricket Council for May 25.

Lamichhane, who at just 23 years old has made significant contributions to Nepal’s cricket scene, has played in various T20 leagues across India, Australia, Pakistan, and the West Indies. His presence on the field has elevated the profile of cricket in Nepal.

In 2022, Lamichhane faced accusations of rape, leading to his temporary arrest. Despite the legal proceedings, he continued his sporting career, participating in international tournaments and matches.

Initially, when an arrest warrant was issued, Lamichhane was in Jamaica for the Caribbean Premier League, where he faced the challenge of returning to Nepal to address the allegations. The leg-spinner’s suspension as Nepal’s captain was lifted, allowing him to resume playing for the national team in various competitions.

Upon Lamichhane’s return to cricket after the legal hurdles, he was welcomed by enthusiastic fans but also faced instances of backlash, such as the refusal of handshakes by Scotland‘s cricketers during an international tournament in Dubai.