Nepal’s cricket squad embarked on their journey to Pakistan for the ODI Asia Cup without the presence of their star spin bowler, Sandeep Lamichhane. Lamichhane, a former symbol of Nepal’s cricket rise, is facing allegations of raping a 17-year-old girl in a Kathmandu hotel room last year.

Lamichhane has vehemently denied the accusations leveled against him. Despite his denial, he must face the legal process in Nepal. The ongoing legal case and reported health concerns are cited as reasons for his absence from the squad.

Pradeep Majgaiyan, the manager of the Cricket Association of Nepal, revealed that while Lamichhane will miss the initial phase of the tournament due to his legal obligations, there is optimism that he might join the team later in the competition.

The ODI Asia Cup, featuring six nations, is set to take place from August 30 to September 17 in Pakistan and Sri Lanka. Nepal, considered cricketing underdogs, is preparing to compete against cricket powerhouses such as India and Pakistan.

Last year, Lamichhane faced suspension as the national captain and was subsequently arrested in relation to the rape allegations. He was released on bail in January. Despite the ongoing legal battle, Nepal lifted his playing ban, allowing him to participate in international matches, including the World Cup qualifiers in Zimbabwe.

Skipper Rohit Paudel expressed the team’s stance on Lamichhane’s potential return. He emphasized that the decision regarding Lamichhane’s participation had not been finalized yet. Paudel acknowledged Lamichhane’s significant contributions to the team’s victories and expressed hope that he would rejoin the squad later in the tournament.