 has taken action against former national team captain Sandeep Lamichhane, suspending him from all national and international games following his conviction in a rape case.){kind=link}
Sandeep Lamichhane suspended by Nepal cricket body after conviction in rape case
Introduction:
In a significant move, the Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN) has taken action against former national team captain Sandeep Lamichhane, suspending him from all national and international games following his conviction in a rape case. The decision, announced by CAN Chairman Chatur Bahadur Chand, comes a day after the Kathmandu High Court handed Lamichhane an 8-year jail term.
Crucial Decision by CAN:
CAN Chairman Chatur Bahadur Chand made the announcement through a press release on Thursday, stating that Sandeep Lamichhane, convicted of rape, has been ousted from the national team and is ineligible to represent Nepal in any game format moving forward.
Legal Background:
The decision follows the Kathmandu High Court’s verdict, delivered by the bench of Shishir Raj Dhakal, sentencing Lamichhane to 8 years of imprisonment, compensation, and penalties in a rape case. This decision came after a hearing on Wednesday.
Timeline of Legal Proceedings:
Previously indicted by the Kathmandu District Court in the rape case, Lamichhane faced interruptions during the trial as he traveled to Zimbabwe for World Cup qualifiers. Despite a brief incarceration period, he was released on bail in January, allowing him to travel abroad.
The Patan High Court later overturned the Kathmandu District Court’s order for Lamichhane’s judicial custody, citing insufficient grounds to keep him detained. He was granted bail of Rs 2 million the next day.
Supreme Court Appeal:
Lamichhane had appealed to the Supreme Court, seeking permission to join the national team for ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup League 2 matches in the UAE against the UAE and Papua New Guinea scheduled for the end of February.
Consistent Denial of Allegations:
Throughout the legal proceedings, Sandeep Lamichhane consistently denied the rape allegations in statements to the police.
Conclusion:
The suspension of Sandeep Lamichhane by the Cricket Association of Nepal marks a pivotal moment, reflecting the gravity of the legal proceedings. The decision underscores the commitment to accountability within the cricketing community amidst serious legal issues.