Nepal cricket team sets off to Pakistan for 2023 Asia Cup amidst star player's absence

Khatmandu:  Nepal's cricket team embarked on their journey to Pakistan for the upcoming 2023 Asia Cup. However, the team's preparations were marred by the absence of one of their star players, Sandeep Lamichhane.

The young and talented 23-year-old spin bowler was compelled to remain in Nepal due to an ongoing legal trial concerning an alleged rape case.

The allegations stem from an incident that reportedly occurred in August of the previous year, where Lamichhane is accused of sexually assaulting a 17-year-old girl in a hotel room in Kathmandu. Lamichhane has vehemently denied these allegations.

Before the team's departure, Pradeep Majgaiyan, the manager of the Cricket Association of Nepal, informed the media about Lamichhane's conspicuous absence from the squad. He cited the ongoing legal proceedings and some health concerns as the reasons behind Lamichhane's non-participation.

Majgaiyan further disclosed that Lamichhane is slated to attend a court hearing related to the case on the upcoming Sunday. The team remains hopeful that once the legal matter is resolved, Lamichhane will be able to rejoin them for the tournament.

The ODI Asia Cup, a significant cricketing event involving six nations, is scheduled to take place from August 30th to September 17th across Pakistan and Sri Lanka.

Sending our best wishes to Team Nepal as they embark on their journey to Pakistan and Sri Lanka for the Asia Cup tonight. #weCAN #AsiaCup pic.twitter.com/eHyaXeUjGp

— CAN (@CricketNep) August 22, 2023

Despite Lamichhane's unfortunate absence, there is a prevailing sense of optimism within the team that he could potentially rejoin them in due course. Majgaiyan expressed confidence in the possibility of Lamichhane returning to the team before the commencement of the tournament.

Lamichhane, who was stripped of his position as the national team captain and faced arrest last year, was subsequently released on bail in January. Nepal later lifted the playing ban imposed on him.

During his bail period, Lamichhane was granted the opportunity to travel abroad, participating in the World Cup qualifiers held in Zimbabwe. However, Nepal was unable to secure a spot in the 50-over World Cup event scheduled in India for October.

Nepal's campaign in the tournament is set to kick off on August 30th in Multan, where they will face the hosts, Pakistan.

The Nepal squad for the tournament includes: Rohit Paudel (captain), Kushal Bhurtel, Aasif Sheikh, Bhim Sharki, Kushal Malla, Aarif Sheikh, Dipendra Singh Airee, Gulshan Jha, Sompal Kami, Karan KC, Sandeep Lamichhane, Lalit Rajbanshi, Pratish GC, Mousom Dhakal, Sundeep Jora, Kishore Mahato, Arjun Saud.