Sri Lanka allrounder Dunith Wellalage's father passes away

What began as a moment of celebration for Sri Lanka in the Asia Cup turned into a personal tragedy for all-rounder Dunith Wellalage, who lost his father, Suranga Wellalage, to a heart attack shortly after the team’s victory over Afghanistan.

According to Sri Lankan media reports, 54-year-old Suranga Wellalage suffered a fatal cardiac arrest while watching his son play in Abu Dhabi. He reportedly experienced chest pains during the final over of Afghanistan’s innings, in which Mohammad Nabi scored 31 runs off Dunith’s bowling. Suranga was rushed to a hospital but could not be saved.

Dunith Wellalage, unaware of the incident during the match, was informed immediately after the game by the team’s media manager during the customary post-match handshakes. The news left the young cricketer visibly shaken. He left for Sri Lanka shortly afterward, accompanied by team manager Mahinda Halangoda.

Suranga Wellalage, a former cricketer himself, had a significant influence on his son’s sporting career. He had captained Prince of Wales College during his school years, while former Sri Lankan cricketer Russell Arnold, speaking during TV commentary, recalled facing him as captain of St. Peter’s College. Arnold said, “Our school cricket is a big deal. It’s a deeply saddening moment for all of us who knew him.”

Condolences have poured in from across the cricketing world.

Bangladesh captain Litton Kumar Das wrote in an emotional tribute, “Keep your head high, Dunith Wellalage. We are deeply saddened by the passing of your father, Suranga Wellalage. May the Almighty grant him eternal peace and give you and your family strength and comfort in this difficult time.”

Afghanistan’s Mohammad Nabi also shared his sympathy, posting, “Deeply saddened by the death of Dunith Wellalage’s father. Stay strong brother.”

The Sri Lankan cricket community is in mourning, with former players and officials expressing their support for Wellalage and his family.

Despite the emotional blow, Sri Lanka secured a six-wicket win over Afghanistan, chasing down 169 with eight balls to spare. They are set to face Bangladesh in their next Super Four match tomorrow