Lamichhane returns as Nepal’s ODI captain for Premier Cup campaign

Sandeep Lamichhane has been reinstated as Nepal’s ODI captain ahead of the ACC Men’s Premier Cup, with the Cricket Association of Nepal confirming the 26‑year‑old leg‑spinner will lead the side. Lamichhane, who has taken 154 wickets in 77 ODIs, replaces Rohit Paudel, under whom Nepal enjoyed a remarkable run that included 11 wins in 12 ICC Cricket World Cup League 2 matches and qualification for the 2023 World Cup Qualifier in Zimbabwe.

The new captain is no stranger to the role, having previously led Nepal in 14 ODIs before Paudel assumed leadership in 2022. Lamichhane brings significant pedigree, holding national records as the fastest Nepalese bowler to reach 150 ODI wickets and the first to claim 100 T20I wickets. His return to captaincy marks a strategic shift as Nepal aim to strengthen their 50‑over structure and build momentum in regional competition.