In a disappointing turn of events, Nepal's ace cricketer Sandeep Lamichhane has been denied a visa by the US Embassy, casting doubt on his participation in the upcoming Twenty20 World Cup set to take place in the United States and the West Indies.

Lamichhane, who had applied for an American visa to represent his country in the prestigious tournament, revealed the setback on social media platform X, stating that his visa application was unsuccessful.

And the @USEmbassyNepal did it again what they did back in 2019, they denied my Visa for the T-20 World Cup happening in USA and West Indies. Unfortunate. I am sorry to all the well wishers of Nepal Cricket. @USAmbNepal @CricketNep. https://t.co/xdBhaY6G91

— Sandeep Lamichhane (@Sandeep25) May 22, 2024

This isn't the first time Lamichhane has faced visa issues with the US Embassy. Back in 2019, he encountered a similar hurdle when seeking entry for the Caribbean Premier League (CPL). However, after public outcry and pressure via social media channels, Lamichhane was eventually granted the necessary visa.

Expressing regret and apologizing to Nepali cricket enthusiasts, Lamichhane acknowledged the disappointment of being unable to secure the visa required for his participation in the cricket extravaganza.

Following his exoneration in a legal case by the Patan High Court, the Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN) swiftly included Lamichhane in the Nepali squad slated to compete in the Twenty20 World Cup.

While other Nepalese players have already made their way to the United States for the tournament, Lamichhane's absence would undoubtedly be felt as Nepal gears up to face the Netherlands in their inaugural match on June 4 (June 22).