Sandeep Lamichhane Returns to BPL, Signs with Rajshahi Warriors for 2026 Season

Nepal leg-spinner Sandeep Lamichhane is set to make his return to the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) after seven years, having signed with Rajshahi Warriors for the tournament’s 12th edition, BPL 2026, according to CricNepal.

The franchise confirmed Lamichhane’s signing through social media, welcoming him as “Himalayan Magic” as they continue to strengthen their squad ahead of the new season. This will mark Lamichhane’s second stint in the BPL. He previously represented Sylhet Sixers during the 2018–19 season, where he played six matches and picked up four wickets.

Since his last BPL appearance, Lamichhane has become one of Nepal’s most recognisable cricketing stars on the global T20 circuit. As reported by CricNepal, he has featured in major franchise leagues including the Caribbean Premier League (CPL), Big Bash League (BBL) and Global T20 Canada.

At the international level, the 25-year-old remains a key figure in Nepal’s bowling attack across both ODIs and T20Is. His T20I record is particularly impressive, with 129 wickets in 68 innings at an excellent average and economy rate. Overall, he has claimed more than 230 wickets in 160 T20 matches. Lamichhane is currently ranked 81st in the ICC Men’s T20I Bowling Rankings.

BDCricTime also confirmed Lamichhane’s signing with Rajshahi Warriors, noting that Bangladesh fans last saw him during the ICC T20 World Cup 2024, when Nepal faced Bangladesh in the group stage. Following that match, Lamichhane was seen in conversation with Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain Shanto, who will now lead him as captain at Rajshahi Warriors in the upcoming BPL season.

Team officials believe Lamichhane’s international experience, franchise exposure and wicket-taking ability will play a vital role in Rajshahi’s title challenge. According to CricFrenzy, Rajshahi have further strengthened their squad by signing New Zealand all-rounder Jimmy Neesham, alongside several overseas and local players.

The Rajshahi Warriors squad for BPL 2026 includes Najmul Hossain Shanto, Mushfiqur Rahim, Mohammad Nawaz, Sahibzada Farhan, Dushan Hemantha, Jahandad Khan, Jimmy Neesham and Sandeep Lamichhane, among others.

The Bangladesh Premier League 2026 is scheduled to begin on December 26, with the opening phase set to be held in Sylhet.