Nepal’s star player Sandeep Lamichhane will miss the entire T20 World Cup 2024 after his US visa was denied again, leaving Nepal in a difficult position as they prepare to face the Netherlands in their first game.

With the T20 World Cup 2024 about to start, Nepal is facing a major setback as star player Sandeep Lamichhane’s US visa was denied again by the American Embassy in Kathmandu on May 30. This denial means Lamichhane will miss the entire tournament, which begins on June 2 and is co-hosted by the USA and the West Indies.

Despite his acquittal in a recent rape case, Lamichhane’s visa interview on Thursday at 4 p.m. resulted in rejection. This was his second attempt following an earlier denial, even though he had been included in Nepal’s 15-member squad for the World Cup. The US Embassy remained hesitant to grant the visa.

The rejection sparked protests from fans outside Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal’s office, urging government intervention. In response, the Nepalese government engaged with the US Embassy, leading to Lamichhane’s second interview. However, the outcome remained the same, leaving Nepal without their key player for the tournament.

“There is a slim — or no chance — for him to be involved in the World Cup. The Cricket Association of Nepal had lobbied to the US embassy through different Nepal government agencies, but the visa was denied,” Chhumbi Lama, central committee member of the Cricket Association of Nepal, told AFP.

READ ALSO | Patan High Court Acquits Sandeep Lamichhane of Rape Charges, Paving Way for T20 World Cup Return

Nepal is placed in Group D alongside Bangladesh, Netherlands, South Africa, and Sri Lanka. Nepal begins their campaign against the Netherlands on June 4 at Grand Prairie Stadium in Dallas. Facing a tough group, Nepal aims for strong performances to secure wins and advance to the knockout stages.

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Last Updated on May 30, 2024

Senior Sports Copywriter