Nepal cricketer Sandeep Lamichhane convicted of Rape

Sandeep Lamichhane, the erstwhile captain of the Nepal Cricket Team, popular for his cricketing prowess, has been found guilty of rape by the Kathmandu District Court. Lamichhane, once regarded as a rising star at the age of 23, now confronts a somber episode in his career.

The legal saga of Lamichhane unfolded dramatically, starting with his arrest at Tribhuvan International Airport in October 2022. Despite facing grave charges, Lamichhane successfully obtained bail on January 12, 2023, following a review petition presented in the Patan High Court. This move stirred controversy within the Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN).

The rape conviction has cast a shadow over Lamichhane’s once-pristine reputation, resulting in his removal as captain in December 2021 and subsequent arrests in September 2022. Although his final One Day International (ODI) appearance occurred in September 2023, the cricketing fraternity now grapples with the downfall of one of Nepal’s cricketing icons.

Amit Mishra, the former Indian leg-spinner, had faced charges by Bangalore police on allegations of assaulting a woman in a hotel room. Booked under sections 354 and 328 of the Indian Penal Code, Mishra’s case spotlighted issues of assault and causing harm with the intent to commit an offense.