Abu Dhabi, September 19, 2025 – Sri Lanka’s young spinner Dunith Wellalage faced a heartbreaking moment after his team’s victory over Afghanistan in the Asia Cup 2025. Moments after the match ended at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Wellalage was informed about the sudden passing of his father, Suranga Wellalage, who suffered a heart attack.
The news was conveyed by head coach Sanath Jayasuriya and the team manager, with visuals showing Jayasuriya consoling the 22-year-old by placing an arm around his shoulder. Commentator and former Sri Lankan cricketer Russell Arnold later confirmed the development on air, recalling that Suranga was also a cricketer who once captained Prince of Wales College, while Arnold himself led St Peter’s College during the same school era.
Difficult outing on the field
Wellalage endured a tough day with the ball, conceding 49 runs in four overs. His final over proved costly as Afghanistan veteran Mohammad Nabi struck him for five consecutive sixes, helping Afghanistan post a competitive total of 169/8. Despite the personal and professional setback, Sri Lanka’s batters ensured victory, chasing down the target with six wickets in hand and eight balls to spare. Kusal Mendis top-scored with an unbeaten 74, while Kamindu Mendis contributed a brisk 26 off 13 balls.
Sri Lanka enter Super 4s
The win sealed Sri Lanka’s third consecutive victory in the tournament, confirming their qualification to the Super 4 stage from Group B alongside Bangladesh, while Afghanistan were knocked out. Captain Charith Asalanka praised the team’s collective spirit but also acknowledged the sombre atmosphere in the dressing room after the tragic news.
Emotional moment for team
Arnold summed up the mood during the broadcast:
“It is quite sad. The news was broken to Dunith just after the game. Our condolences to the family. The dressing room is a tight-knit space, and hopefully this moment strengthens the bond among the players as they move forward.”
