“He was not guilty”: Sandeep Lamichhane’s lawyer on declaring Nepal cricketer innocent of rape charges

In a dramatic turn of events, former Nepal cricket captain Sandeep Lamichhane was acquitted of rape charges on Wednesday, May 15th, by the Patan High Court. This overturns his conviction by the Kathmandu District Court in January 2024, which sentenced him to eight years in prison and a hefty fine.

Sandeep Lamichhane set free by Patan High Court

Lamichhane, a star leg-spinner and national hero, was accused of raping an unnamed woman in 2022. He was initially released on bail while awaiting trial and subsequently appealed his conviction.

“The district court’s verdict has been overturned,” Bimal Parajuli, the High Court’s deputy registrar, confirmed to setopati.com. “Sandeep Lamichhane has been acquitted.”

Lamichhane’s lawyer, Sabita Bhadari Baral, echoed this statement, telling Reuters, “He had to be cleared and the high court has set him free. He was not guilty.”

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Lamichhane can be selected in Nepal’s T20 World Cup squad

This acquittal could see Lamichhane return to the cricketing spotlight. He was not included in Nepal’s provisional squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup, but with the final deadline for submissions set for May 25th, his inclusion remains a possibility.

However, Lamichhane’s return to international cricket may not be smooth sailing. In February, Scotland’s cricket team staged a silent protest by refusing to shake his hand following their defeat to Nepal. This act highlighted the ongoing controversy surrounding the allegations.

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