Chand Reveals ICC’s Confidentiality Clause for Lamichhane’s Inclusion in T20 World Cup Squad

Chatur Bahadur Chand, Chairman of the Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN), has shed light on the hitherto undisclosed inclusion of Sandeep Lamichhane as the 15th player in Nepal’s ICC T20 World Cup squad. Amidst mounting criticism surrounding Lamichhane’s visa rejection by the United States, Chand clarified that Lamichhane’s name was kept confidential under a “special provision” sanctioned by the ICC.

In a press conference, Chairman Chand disclosed that it was the ICC itself that granted Nepal the prerogative to include Lamichhane as the 15th player, with the condition of maintaining confidentiality. He further elucidated that CAN had dispatched the ICC’s communication to the US Embassy in Nepal well in advance of Lamichhane’s visa application, with Lamichhane’s name explicitly included in the list.

The revelation comes amidst public backlash directed at CAN officials following the visa debacle. Chairman Chand made public the ICC’s letter, seeking to provide transparency and quell speculations surrounding the controversial issue. Additionally, he emphasized that until the Nepali team’s visit to the United States, the matter concerning Lamichhane remained sub judice, urging against premature assumptions regarding his legal status.

CAN, through its chairman, has urged stakeholders not to interpret the confidentiality and caution exercised in the matter as a sign of weakness. The association maintains its commitment to transparency and accountability, reaffirming its efforts to navigate challenges for the betterment of Nepali cricket.