Former Nepal cricket team captain Sandeep Lamichhane has lodged an appeal against the eight-year prison sentence handed down for his conviction in a rape case. The 23-year-old, once celebrated as the face of cricket in Nepal, continues to be out of jail as he awaits the outcome of the appeal.
Sandeep Lamichhane, a prominent leg-spinner, faced a setback in December when he was found guilty of rape, leading to his sentencing a month later. In response to the court’s decision, Lamichhane’s legal team filed an appeal, seeking a review of the case.
Sandeep Lamichhane out of jail
Saroj Ghimire, Lamichhane’s lawyer, confirmed the appeal, stating to AFP, “We have filed an appeal against the court’s decision.” Additionally, an application was submitted to allow Lamichhane to remain free during the appeal process, which has been granted.
The cricketer, who was once a symbol of success for Nepali cricket, saw his career take a downturn after the rape conviction. Despite the legal challenges, Lamichhane had initially faced trouble returning from Jamaica, where he participated in the Caribbean Premier League, following an arrest warrant issued in 2022.
Arrest of cricketer
The subsequent arrest led to his removal as the national captain, but Nepal later lifted his playing ban, permitting his participation in various cricket tournaments, including the World Cup qualifiers and the 2023 Asia Cup.
Sandeep Lamichhane had played a crucial role in elevating Nepal’s cricket profile, gaining international recognition in T20 leagues worldwide. His breakthrough came in 2018 when he was picked up for the Indian Premier League, marking a significant milestone in his cricketing career.
As the legal proceedings unfold, the cricketing community watches closely, reflecting on the contrasting chapters of Sandeep Lamichhane’s once illustrious cricketing journey.
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