In what should have been a night of celebration for Sri Lanka, tragedy struck as young all-rounder Dunith Wellalage received heartbreaking news just moments after his team sealed a Super Four spot in the Asia Cup 2025.
The 22-year-old learned of his father Suranga Wellalage’s sudden passing due to a heart attack immediately after Sri Lanka’s six-wicket win over Afghanistan at the Zayed Cricket Stadium on Thursday.
A video circulating online shows head coach Sanath Jayasuriya and the team manager breaking the news to the visibly shaken cricketer. Suranga, 54, was himself a known figure in Sri Lanka’s schools cricket circuit, having captained Prince of Wales College during his playing days.
Former cricketer and commentator Russell Arnold paid tribute live on air:
“Dunith Wellalage’s father, Suranga, passed away just a while ago. He also played cricket — captaining Prince of Wales College when I led St Peter’s College. Very sad news. Our condolences are with the family.”
From Celebration to Grief
Sri Lanka had just booked their place in the Super Four with a commanding chase of 170, thanks to Kusal Mendis’s unbeaten 74. The dressing room should have been buzzing with joy, but instead, emotions turned heavy as news of the tragedy spread.
Adding to the drama of the night, Mohammad Nabi had hammered 32 runs in the final over bowled by Wellalage — a rare off day for the left-arm spinner, who is usually Sri Lanka’s most reliable young bowler. Unbeknownst to him, a much bigger heartbreak awaited after the game.
Participation in Doubt
Wellalage immediately left the team camp to be with his family, putting his Asia Cup participation in serious doubt.
This comes as a significant blow for defending champions Sri Lanka, who are scheduled to face Bangladesh on September 20, Pakistan on September 23, and India on September 26 in the Super Four stage.
Wellalage has already built a reputation as a match-winner, having taken two five-wicket hauls against India in recent ODIs, including a famous 5/27 in Colombo last year. His absence could leave Sri Lanka’s spin attack vulnerable in crunch matches.
Cricket Pauses, Life Reminds
For Dunith Wellalage, the Asia Cup has suddenly turned from an opportunity to shine into an unimaginable personal tragedy.
As Sri Lanka prepare for their Super Four campaign, their thoughts — and the thoughts of fans around the world — will remain with the young cricketer and his grieving family.
