Sandeep Lamichhane is set for a controversial inclusion in Nepal's squad for their upcoming ODI tri-series against Namibia and Scotland that forms part of Cricket World Cup League 2.

The 22 year-old leg-spinner, one of Nepal's best known cricketers, is currently on bail awaiting trial for the rape of a minor. He was arrested at Kathmandu airport in October and was released on bail last month.

Lamichhane, who denies the allegations, last played for Nepal in August 2022 on their tour of Kenya. The rape is alleged to have occured shortly before his departure to Nairobi for that series.

An interview in the Kathmandu Post with his accuser makes for very grim reading and Lamichhane's inclusion in a training squad attracted protests in Nepal with many calling for a boycott of the games at Tribhuvan University next week.

Both Cricket Scotland and Cricket Namibia have issued statements condemning all forms of abuse and stating that Lamichhane's selection was a matter for the Cricket Association of Nepal and the International Cricket Council.