Nepal’s star cricketer Sandeep Lamichhane will miss the T20 World Cup 2024 after his US visa application was rejected again by the American Embassy in Kathmandu on Thursday, May 30. This decision comes as a significant blow to the Nepalese cricket team just days before the tournament’s commencement.
Nepal’s first game is against the Netherlands, scheduled for June 4 at the Grand Prairie Stadium in Dallas. The T20 World Cup 2024, co-hosted by the USA and the West Indies, kicks off on June 2. Despite Lamichhane’s inclusion in Nepal’s 15-member squad following his acquittal in a rape case, the US Embassy remained reluctant to grant him a visa.
His initial visa application had already been denied, prompting widespread fan protests in front of Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal’s office. This public outcry led to Nepal’s government intervening, resulting in a second visa interview for Lamichhane on May 30, which ultimately also ended in rejection.
Nepal will begin their World Cup campaign against the Netherlands
Nepal’s cricket team now faces a daunting challenge without their star player. Grouped in Group D, they will compete against strong teams like Bangladesh, South Africa, Sri Lanka, and the Netherlands. The team’s first match against the Netherlands on June 4 is crucial as they aim to make a mark in the tournament.
The group stage promises tough competition, and Nepal will need to perform at their best to secure wins and advance to the knockout rounds. Lamichhane’s absence is a significant setback for the team, impacting their preparations and strategies for the World Cup.
The 23-year-old’s skills and experience would have been invaluable in navigating the challenges posed by such formidable opponents. His non-participation has raised concerns and sparked debates among fans and officials about the implications for Nepal‘s performance in the tournament. As the T20 World Cup 2024 unfolds, Nepal will have to adapt quickly to this unexpected change.
The team’s resilience and collective effort will be tested as they strive to make an impact on the global stage despite the absence of one of their key players. Fans and supporters will be keenly watching how Nepal navigates through the group stages and competes against some of the world’s best cricket teams without Lamichhane.
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