Sri Lankan cricketer Dunith Wellalage experienced a personal tragedy during the Asia Cup 2025. His father, Suranga Wellalage, died of a heart attack on Thursday, September 18. The news reached Dunith shortly after Sri Lanka secured a victory against Afghanistan in Abu Dhabi. The devastating information was shared by former cricketer Russell Arnold during the post-match commentary. Team officials subsequently informed Dunith of his father’s passing, with images of the team manager consoling him widely circulated. Suranga Wellalage, a respected cricketer in his own right, had captained Prince of Wales College, during the same period Arnold led St. Peter’s College, adding a layer of poignancy for Sri Lanka’s cricket community. Sanath Jayasuriya, along with the team manager, conveyed the sad news to Wellalage and offered their support. The emotional moment came right after Sri Lanka’s six-wicket win against Afghanistan, securing their place in the Super 4 round. Kusal Mendis scored 74* and Kamindu Mendis added 28 off 28 balls, leading the defending champions to victory in the 19th over. Earlier, Afghanistan’s Mohammad Nabi put up a strong performance, with five sixes from Wellalage’s bowling in the 20th over. Despite this, Sri Lanka advanced to the Super 4s to face India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh.
