Sandeep Lamichhane became the first Nepalese player to get an Indian Premier League (IPL) contract when he was picked by Delhi Daredevils for his base price of Rs 20 lakh at the Player’s Auction in January. On Saturday, he made his IPL Debut and emerged the most economical bowler for Delhi Daredevils as he took one wicket, conceding 25 runs in his allotted four overs against Royal Challengers Bangalore.
After impressive debut, Lamichhane credited former Australia captain Michael Clarke for his rise.
“We (Clarke and I) were so close during the IPL season. We spoke to each other and he was saying that you have done so well today,” Lamichhane said at the post match conference.
He trained at Clarke’s cricket academy in Sydney after he was spotted by the former Australia captain at the Hong Kong T20 Blitz in 2016.
Delhi Daredevils suffered their ninth loss in 12 matches meant they were eliminated from the play-off race, bottom of the eight-team table.
“Still I am a bit upset because the most important thing is a team win and if your team is not winning you must be upset,” the spinner added.
