1st October 2025, Kathmandu
Star Nepalese leg-spinner Sandeep Lamichhane has been suspended for the final two matches of the T20 series against the West Indies.
Sandeep Lamichhane Suspended
The Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN) confirmed the disciplinary action in a statement, citing Lamichhane’s last-minute decision not to participate in the opening match.
Reason for Suspension and CAN’s Statement
According to the official statement released by CAN Secretary Paras Khadka, Lamichhane made the decision not to play just 45 minutes before the start of the first match on September 27. CAN stated that his unilateral decision resulted in a “serious negative impact on the team management, players, and Nepalese cricket as a whole.”
Based on the team management’s recommendation, CAN proceeded to suspend him for the remainder of the series. The move highlights CAN’s zero-tolerance policy towards breaches of discipline that compromise team integrity and morale, especially during a high-profile international series.
Future: T20 World Cup Qualifier Inclusion
Crucially, CAN has clarified that this suspension is limited only to the West Indies series. Lamichhane will be included in the Nepalese squad for the forthcoming T-20 World Cup Qualifiers in Oman. This suggests that despite the disciplinary issue, he remains a key component of the national team’s long-term plans. The Nepalese team has already traveled to Oman for the qualifier tournament.
Impact on Nepalese Cricket
The suspension of a top player like Lamichhane during a bilateral series against an established Test-playing nation has created significant discussion within the Nepalese cricket community. The incident raises questions about player conduct and the management-player relationship within the national setup. The swift action by CAN signals a stronger commitment to maintaining strict disciplinary standards moving forward.
Conclusion
While Lamichhane’s absence may affect Nepal’s performance in the remainder of the West Indies series, his confirmed inclusion for the T20 World Cup Qualifiers provides a degree of reassurance to Nepalese cricket fans.
The CAN’s decision underscores a necessary focus on team discipline and management integrity in the development of the national cricket team.
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