Sandeep Lamichhane Becomes Second-Fastest Bowler to Reach 100 T20I Wickets

Nepalese cricket sensation Sandeep Lamichhane has etched his name in the annals of T20I history by becoming the second-fastest bowler to reach the milestone of 100 wickets. During Nepal's T20 World Cup match against Bangladesh in St. Vincent, Lamichhane's two-wicket spell propelled him to this remarkable achievement.

Prior to this match, Lamichhane had amassed 98 wickets in 53 T20I appearances, boasting an impressive average of 12.58 and an economical rate of 6.29. His latest feat places him just behind Afghanistan's Rashid Khan, who achieved the 100-wicket mark in one game fewer.

Lamicchane's return to international cricket has been a triumphant one. After facing an eight-year prison sentence for a rape conviction, he was cleared and made his comeback in the match against South Africa last week. Despite not playing a competitive match since late last year, Lamichhane's rigorous training at Kathmandu's TU Ground has paid dividends.

His arrival in the USA was initially delayed due to visa issues, but the ICC granted him a late addition to Nepal's World Cup squad. "We had tried hard to secure a US visa for Lamichhane, but it didn't work out," said CAN president Chatur Bahadur Chand. "We requested the ICC to allow him to be added to the World Cup squad as a late entry, and they have now approved his inclusion for the last two group stage matches."

Lamicchane expressed his gratitude for the support he received in securing his visa and joining the squad. "I would like to thank the Government of Nepal, Foreign Ministry, Sports Ministry, National Sports Council, and Cricket Association of Nepal for their support," he said. "I am now joining the National team for the last two matches in the West Indies and look forward to fulfilling my dreams and the dream of all cricket lovers."

In the match against Bangladesh, Nepal fell short by 21 runs, but Lamichhane's historic achievement overshadowed the result. His remarkable journey from facing adversity to reaching the pinnacle of T20I bowling is a testament to his resilience and determination.

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