Nepal Prime Minister K.P Sharma Oli says Sandeep Lamichhane inspiring cricket in his country
He’s one of the hottest players in the Big Bash League. And after Sandeep Lamichhane’s phenomenal rise, even his country’s Prime Minister has moved to pay tribute to the Melbourne Stars spinner.
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Nepal’s Prime Minister has declared teenage leg-spinner Sandeep Lamichhane an “inspiration” for their country’s next generation.
Lamichhane, 18, was the Big Bash League’s leading wicket-taker after three games as the tricky spinner’s success continues to reverberate around the world.
Prime Minister K.P Sharma Oli exclusively told the Herald Sun that Lamichhane had “raised new hope” for the Himalayan nation’s cricket team.
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“I have been watching our young cricket spinner Sandeep Lamichhane’s talent with a sense of great satisfaction in the world of cricket,” Oli said.
“It is pleasing to note here that I had expressed my joyfulness when he was selected to play at Lord’s in England (for the) ICC World 11 in last May.
“Now his talents have been shown to the world.
“Dear Sandeep, the news of your achievements has come as a great delight to all of us here in Nepal.
“All your hard work, commitment and untiring practice have paid off. Your success has inspired Nepali youths and raised new hope for Nepali Cricket team.
“Entire country is proud of you.”
Nepal cricket captain Paras Khadka attended last night’s MCG derby in support of Lamichhane.
Lamichhane played alongside some of world cricket’s biggest name when he represented the ICC in the Hurricane Relief T20 charity match against the West Indies in London.
Delhi coach Ricky Ponting then gave Lamichhane a debut in the Indian Premier League, where he shone as one of the brightest young talents in the final three games.
Lamichhane has been retained by Delhi in the IPL and joined Melbourne Stars this summer, although he flies to Bangladesh today to play under captain David Warner at the Sylhet Sixers.
The Nepalese tweaker will be replaced by English spinner Matt Parkinson for about the next seven BBL games.
But Lamichhane is likely to return for the final couple of games plus potential finals for the Stars.
Originally published as Nepal Prime Minister K.P Sharma Oli says Sandeep Lamichhane inspiring cricket in his country
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