Sandeep Lamichhane, a former cricket captain, was given an eight-year prison sentence for rape on Wednesday by a Nepali court.
The 23-year-old leg spinner Lamichhane was formerly Nepal’s cricket poster child, and his on-field accomplishments raised awareness of the game in the Himalayan nation.
He was freed on bail after being charged of raping a young woman in a Kathmandu hotel in 2022, and he rejoined the team to participate in international competitions.
He was found guilty of rape in December following a protracted trial that had allowed him to pursue his athletic career. On Wednesday, his sentence was announced.
An official from the Kathmandu district court named Ramu Sharma told AFP, “The court has sentenced him to eight years.”
For the sentencing, Lamichhane, who is not in detention, was not present in court.
Saroj Ghimire, his attorney, informed AFP that he “will appeal the decision in a higher court.”
Despite the charge, Lamichhane maintained his innocence and was well-liked by the public.
However, his prolonged playing career has also incited resentment and led many Nepalis to reject the squad.
It took the prosecution of Lamichhane over a year to wrap up due to several procedural setbacks.
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