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A massive protest erupted in Nepal following the news that star cricketer Sandeep Lamichhane was denied a visa by the US Embassy for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2024.
Massive protest on the streets of Kathmandu
The passionate cricket fans of Nepal took to the streets of Kathmandu, expressing their disappointment and demanding immediate action to resolve the issue.
Lamichhane, a prominent figure in Nepalese cricket, was recently acquitted of rape charges by the Patan High Court. Fans and experts of the game were confident enough that he will be included in Nepal’s squad for the T20 World Cup 2024. Now, his exclusion due to visa issues has sparked widespread outrage among supporters who view his presence as crucial to the team’s success.
Also READ: “He was not guilty”: Sandeep Lamichhane’s lawyer on declaring Nepal cricketer innocent of rape charges
The protestors gathered in large numbers, holding banners and chanting slogans in support of Lamichhane. They called on the authorities to intervene and ensure that the talented cricketer is granted the necessary visa to represent Nepal on the global stage.
कृकेटर Sandeep Lamichhane लाई Visa दिनको लागी आन्दोलन ।। pic.twitter.com/ozZBESsCx3
— तितेकरेली👁️👁️🇳🇵 (@Teetekareli_) May 29, 2024
Nepalese cricket officials have also expressed their concern over the situation and are reportedly in talks with relevant authorities to address the visa denial. They emphasized the importance of Lamichhane’s participation in the T20 World Cup and are hopeful for a positive resolution.
Another rejection for Sandeep Lamichhane
The 23-year-old Lamichhane was training at the TU cricket ground before getting a second chance of visa approval following coordination by the Foreign Minister with the US embassy.
Also READ: Nepal squad for T20 World Cup 2024 – Trying to include Sandeep Lamichhane despite visa denial
However, his visa application was rejected again and he will now miss the T20 World Cup 2024, which is scheduled to be held in the West Indies and USA from June 1 to 29.
🟥 𝐈𝐓'𝐒 𝐎𝐕𝐄𝐑 🟥
Sandeep Lamichhane's visa application is denied once again by the US Embassy in Nepal. He will now not play in the T20 World Cup 2024. pic.twitter.com/nOioPbRwze— Cardiac Kids Nepal (@CardiacKidsNep) May 30, 2024
Nepal will kick off their campaign against the Netherlands in a Group D fixture on June 4. They will play their first two matches in the USA before heading to the Caribbean Islands for the subsequent two games.
