Nepal have handed the ODI captaincy back to experienced leg-spinner Sandeep Lamichhane ahead of the ACC Men’s Premier Cup in Malaysia, replacing Rohit Paudel.

The 26-year-old has previously led Nepal in 14 ODIs and returns to the role after Paudel took over in 2022.

Lamichhane has established himself as one of Nepal’s leading bowlers, reaching 150 ODI wickets faster than any other Nepalese player. He also became the first Nepal player to claim 100 wickets in T20 internationals.

Paudel enjoyed a successful spell as captain, guiding Nepal to 11 victories in 12 matches during the ICC Cricket World Cup League 2 campaign and helping them secure a place in the 2023 World Cup Qualifier in Zimbabwe.

The Premier Cup will take place from August 30 to September 12, with Nepal aiming to make an impact under their returning captain.

Nepal’s squad

Sandeep Lamichhane (captain), Rohit Paudel, Aasif Sheikh, Arjun Kumal, Dev Khanal, Dipendra Singh Airee, Basir Ahamad, Ishan Pandey, Gulshan Kumar Jha, Sher Malla, Lalit Narayan Rajbanshi, Karan KC, Hemant Dhami and Sundeep Jora.