Sandeep Lamichhane, a key player of the Nepali national cricket team and the country's most internationally recognized cricketer, has announced his decision to step away from the central contract offered by the Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN).
Lamichhane, a young and prolific leg-spinner, is the only Nepali cricketer to have played in the Indian Premier League (IPL). His participation in various global T20 leagues has made him a prominent figure and a poster boy for Nepali cricket.
In a statement shared on his social media accounts, Lamichhane clarified that his decision "is not a step away from cricket or the nation but a step towards evolving personally and professionally." He expressed gratitude to CAN for its role in his cricketing journey and affirmed his unwavering commitment to representing Nepal with passion and dedication.
According to RSS, CAN spokesperson Chhumbi Lama confirmed that Lamichhane had communicated his decision to the association. He added that CAN would deliberate on the matter and make its position public in due course.
Under the central contract, Lamichhane was categorized in Group 'A', receiving a monthly remuneration of Rs 100,000.
Lamichhane's stellar career was dragged into controversy in 2022 when he was accused of raping a minor. According to media reports, Lamichhane was initially convicted by the Kathmandu District Court in December 2023 and sentenced to eight years in prison, but he appealed the verdict. In May 2024, the Patan High Court acquitted him of all charges, citing insufficient evidence and discrepancies regarding the victim's age, Reuters reported.
In April 2023, Lamichhane shattered the world record for the fastest 100 wicket in one-day internationals (ODIs). Lamichhane made history by becoming the fastest bowler to reach 100 wickets in ODIs, achieving the milestone in just 42 matches during an ACC Men’s Premier Cup match against Oman at Nepal’s TU Cricket Ground. He broke the previous record held by Afghanistan’s Rashid Khan, who had reached 100 ODI wickets in 44 matches.
