Sri Lanka all-rounder Dunith Wellalage suffered a personal tragedy on Thursday night during his team’s Asia Cup 2025 match against Afghanistan, losing his father Suranga Wellalage to a heart attack. He was 54.
Shortly after Sri Lanka chased down a 170-run target in Abu Dhabi to qualify for the Super 4 stage, the 22-year-old Wellalage was informed of his father’s passing by head coach Sanath Jayasuriya and the team manager on the field. Dunith reportedly left for home soon after, with his participation in the remainder of the tournament in doubt.
“Dunith Wellalage’s father, Suranga, passed away just a while ago. He played a bit of cricket too. You know how big our school cricket scene is. He captained Prince of Wales College when I captained my school, St Peter’s,” former Sri Lanka cricketer Russel Arnold said while commentating on Sony Sports Network.
“Quite sad to hear that. The news was broken to Dunith just a while ago. And our condolences to the family. The celebrations will be muted. The team is a tight place, the dressing room. Hopefully, this bonds them and helps them go on and do well in the Super 4 stage,” he added.
The moment when Sri Lanka’s coach Sanath Jayasuriya and Team manager informed Dunith Wellallage about the demise of his father right after the match. Dunith’s father passed away due to a sudden heart attack. He was 54.🥲
video credits- Dhanushka pic.twitter.com/P01nFFWlVW— Nibraz Ramzan (@nibraz88cricket) September 18, 2025
“Deeply saddened by the passing of Mr. Suranga Wellalage, father of Dunith Wellalage. My heartfelt condolences to the family. Stay strong Dunith, the whole nation stands with you and your family in this difficult time,” wrote former Sri Lanka captain Lasith Malinga on X.
Rough night
Playing his first match in the tournament, Wellalage gave up 49 runs in just four overs, securing only one wicket. He was notably smashed for five sixes in a 32-run 20th over by veteran Mohammad Nabi. The former Afganistan skipper would later offer his support to the Lankan youngster through a social media post.
Heartfelt condolences to Dunith Wellalage and his family on the loss of his beloved father.
Stay strong Brother pic.twitter.com/d6YF2BhlnV— Mohammad Nabi (@MohammadNabi007) September 18, 2025
“Heartfelt condolences to Dunith Wellalage and his family on the loss of his beloved father. Stay strong Brother,” wrote Nabi.
Sri Lanka are slated to face Bangladesh next in the Super 4 opener on Monday.
