Finally Lamichhan in the World Cup

Nepal cricket fans can finally breathe a sigh of relief as Sandeep Lamichhane, the star spinner, has obtained a US visa on his third attempt. Lamichhane will now be able to play in Nepal's final two group matches of the ongoing T20 World Cup.

Lamichhane's initial two visa applications were rejected by the US Embassy in Nepal, which forced him to remain in Nepal while his team participated in the tournament. The Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN) worked on the issue after the first rejection, but the result was the same.

Finally, Lamichhane has successfully secured his visa and has flown to the West Indies. He has joined the Nepal squad for their matches against South Africa and Bangladesh in the West Indies.

To make room for Lamichhane in the squad, Pratish GC had to step aside. Pratish will continue to travel with the team as a reserve player for the World Cup campaign.

Nepal lost their first match to the Netherlands by six wickets. Their next match is against Sri Lanka on June 12. While Lamichhane will be with the team for this game, he is set to play on June 15 against South Africa and June 17 against Bangladesh.

Earlier this year, in January, the Kathmandu District Court found Lamichhane guilty of rape and sentenced him to eight years in prison. However, he was later acquitted by the Nepal High Court, which cleared him of all charges. These legal issues were the reason for the US Embassy's initial visa denials.

Lamichhane's presence is expected to boost Nepal's performance in the remaining matches of the tournament, providing much-needed expertise and experience to the squad.