Sri Lanka cricketer Dunith Wellalage was informed about the death of his father following the Group B match against Afghanistan.
Dunith Wellalage Learns of Father’s Passing After Sri Lanka Victory
Sri Lanka’s win over Afghanistan in their final Asia Cup Group B match at Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi was bittersweet for spinner Dunith Wellalage. The 22-year-old, who was hit for five sixes in an over by Mohammad Nabi, was informed about his father Suranga Wellalage’s death due to a heart attack immediately after the game. Coach Sanath Jayasuriya and the team manager delivered the tragic news, with visuals showing Jayasuriya consoling the young cricketer by placing a hand on his shoulder.
Former all-rounder Russell Arnold confirmed the news on air, noting that Suranga was also a respected cricketer who captained Prince of Wales College when Arnold led St Peter’s College. “Quite sad to hear that. The news was broken to Dunith just a while ago. Our condolences to the family. The celebrations will be muted. The dressing room is tight-knit, and hopefully, this bonds them to perform well in the Super 4 stage,” Arnold 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.🥲
— Nibraz Ramzan (@nibraz88cricket) September 18, 2025
video credits- Dhanushka pic.twitter.com/P01nFFWlVW
Wellalage’s bad day at the office
Sri Lanka secured a comfortable win over Afghanistan in their final Group B match, despite spinner Dunith Wellalage having a tough outing. Wellalage conceded 49 runs in his four overs, giving away 32 runs in the final over as Mohammad Nabi smashed him for five sixes. Afghanistan managed a respectable 169/8 in 20 overs, thanks largely to Nabi’s explosive 60 off 22 balls.
Chasing the target, Sri Lanka wrapped up the game with six wickets in hand and eight balls to spare. Kusal Mendis remained unbeaten on 74, guiding the team home, while Kamindu Mendis contributed an unbeaten 26 off 13 balls. This victory marked Sri Lanka’s third consecutive win and ensured Afghanistan’s exit from the Asia Cup.
Charith Asalanka’s side qualified for the Super 4s alongside Bangladesh. Sri Lanka will next face Bangladesh on Saturday at the Dubai International Stadium in the Super 4s stage.
