Sri Lankan spinner Dunith Wellalage has shared an extremely emotional and heartwarming note after the sudden passing away of his father, Suranga Wellalage, during his team's clash against Afghanistan in the ongoing Asia Cup 2025 tournament. The youngster expressed his deep grief, while also showing gratitude to teammates, fans, and Sri Lankan Cricket (SLC) for their continuous love and support during this heartbreaking and tough time.
Wellalage's father tragically passed away due to a heart attack on September 18, just hours after the Island nation's six-wicket win over Afghanistan in Abu Dhabi. The 22-year-old was informed about this devastating news only after the game by team manager Mahinda Halangoda and head coach Sanath Jayasuriya, in an emotional scene that had gone viral on social media.
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The youngster took to social media and poured his heart out, thanking teammates and fans for being with him through this testing period. Dunith also expressed his heartfelt gratitude towards SLC, his sponsors, medical staff, and his former schools and clubs for supporting his family. The all-rounder ended his note with a promise to carry forward his late father's dream.
Dunith Wellalage joins Sri Lankan team after completing his father's last rites
After completing the funeral rites, Dunith rejoined the national team and played Sri Lanka's first Super Four fixture game against Bangladesh, which they lost. The Island nation will next battle it out with Pakistan on Tuesday, September 23 in a do-or-die game. The loser of this game will be knocked out of the Continental Cup.
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So far, Wellalage has played two games in the Asia Cup, bowling eight overs and conceding 85 runs with a single wicket.
