KATHMANDU: The US Embassy has denied a visa to cricketer Sandeep Lamichhane despite efforts from the Prime Minister and Sports Minister.

Lamichhane was first denied a visa on May 22. F

ollowing this initial denial, the government made concerted efforts to ensure Lamichhane could join Nepal’s T20 World Cup squad in the USA, according to Biraj Bhakta Shrestha, Minister for Youth and Sports.

“Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal and Foreign Minister Narayan Kaji Shrestha also made efforts for Lamichhane’s visa. The government sent a visa note to the US Embassy,” said Minister Shrestha.

However, for the second time today, the US Embassy refused to grant a visa to Lamichhane without disclosing any reasons behind it, Minister Shrestha added.

“Ultimately, it is up to the USA to decide. If this issue is related to legal matters or Lamichhane’s character, then I believe the USA has a better understanding of it. From our side, we did everything we could,” said Shrestha.