Sri Lanka’s young spinner Dunith Wellalage faced an emotional blow after his team’s Asia Cup victory against Afghanistan. Moments after the win at Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi, the 22-year-old was informed that his father, Suranga Wellalage, had passed away from a heart attack.
Coach Sanath Jayasuriya and the team manager broke the tragic news to him in the dressing room. Fresh visuals showed Jayasuriya consoling the emotional cricketer by placing a hand on his shoulder.
Russell Arnold Confirms the News
Former Sri Lanka all-rounder Russell Arnold shared the heartbreaking update during commentary. Speaking on Sony Sports Network, he said Suranga Wellalage was also a respected cricketer.
“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,” Arnold said.
Heart-Breaking 💔
– Moments after the match, Sri Lankan 🇱🇰 coach Sanath Jayasuriya & Team Manager informed young Dunith Wellalage about his father’s sudden death due to a heart attack 😣
– Strength to Dunith & his family in this tragic time 🙏🏻 pic.twitter.com/SN8QNTA2mM
— Richard Kettleborough (@RichKettle07) September 19, 2025
He further added, “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.”
Tough Day on the Field
Wellalage had a tough outing in the game. He conceded 49 runs in his four overs, including a costly final over. Afghanistan’s Mohammad Nabi smashed him for five sixes, collecting 32 runs in the last over of the innings.
Afghanistan posted 169/8 in their 20 overs. Despite the setback, Sri Lanka chased the target successfully.
Sri Lanka Seal Super 4 Spot
Sri Lanka finished the game in style with eight balls to spare. Kusal Mendis led the chase with an unbeaten 74, while Kamindu Mendis contributed a quick 26 off 13 balls. The team secured their third consecutive win in the group stage.
This victory also knocked Afghanistan out of the Asia Cup, as Sri Lanka and Bangladesh advanced from Group B to the Super 4 stage.
Sri Lanka will face Bangladesh in their next Super 4 match at the Dubai International Stadium on Saturday.
