Meeting underway to decide his participation 

KATHMANDU, May 15: Following the acquittal of cricketer Sandeep Lamichhane in a rape case, the Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN) is holding a meeting this evening to discuss his inclusion in the Nepali cricket team.

According to CAN sources, a meeting is underway to decide whether to include Sandeep in the T20 World Cup squad. 

Chhambu Limbu, a central member of CAN, stated that Lamichhane's acquittal has reopened the door for his participation in the World Cup. Speaking to Republica, he said, "Following the higher authorities' order, CAN has to make some decisions. We will coordinate with the ICC as soon as possible to facilitate his inclusion."

The ninth edition of the ICC T20 Cricket World Cup is scheduled to be held in the USA and West Indies from June 1 to 29. The Nepali team has already been announced for this tournament.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) had set a deadline of May 1 for player selection, and CAN has announced a 15-member squad accordingly. However, with Lamichhane's recent acquittal, there remains a possibility he could still play in the upcoming T20 World Cup. Limbu mentioned that the team lineup can be adjusted with valid reasons.

According to ICC rules, teams can make changes to their squads until May 25. This provision allows all participating nations some flexibility in finalizing their teams.

"Even though Nepal has announced the team, the ICC has left some technical issues open, such as provisions for injuries and replacements. This means there is still a possibility for Sandeep Lamichhane to play in the World Cup," Limbu added.