Former Nepal Cricket Team captain Sandeep Lamichhane, amidst serious allegations, managed to obtain bail but now confronts a distressing episode following his conviction for rape.
Sandeep Lamichhane, the former Nepal Cricket Team captain once lauded for his cricket skills, now confronts a distressing phase following his conviction for rape by the Kathmandu District Court. The court’s decision, made after a week-long hearing, highlighted his guilt with an incident involving an 18-year-old girl in August 2022. Contrary to earlier reports, the court clarified that the victim was not a minor at the time. The sentencing is pending, and set to be disclosed in the next court session scheduled for January 10, 2024, where the duration of his jail term and potential fines or compensation will be determined.
Lamichhane made waves in Nepal’s cricket history, emerging as their top wicket-taker in ODIs and T20Is. Since his debut in May 2018, Lamichhane soared in over 100 matches, excelling as a leader in both formats.
The cricketer’s legal ordeal began with his arrest on October 6, 2022, at Tribhuvan International Airport, following charges filed by the Kathmandu District Attorney’s Office under Section 219 of the Criminal Code 2074. The victim filed the complaint on September 6, accusing Lamichhane of the offense during his stay in Trinidad and Tobago for the Caribbean Premier League.
Despite serious allegations, Lamichhane secured bail on January 12, 2023, after filing a review petition in the Patan High Court, released on a Rs 2 million bail bond with specified conditions. This decision triggered debates in the Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN) regarding his involvement in overseas matches. The rape conviction led to his removal as captain in December 2021 and subsequent arrests in September 2022.
Last Updated on December 29, 2023
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