Dunith Wellalage’s father passes away during Asia Cup 2025 match

Sri Lankan spinner Dunith Wellalage experienced a tragic family loss while representing his country on the field during the team’s Asia Cup 2025 match against Afghanistan on Thursday, September 18, at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi. While representing his country, Wellalage’s father, Suranga Wellalage, passed away from a heart attack.

Dunith was still unable to cope with this tragedy when he continued to do his part in his country’s victory. He didn’t find out the awful news until after the game ended. A video of Sri Lanka's head coach, Sanath Jayasuriya, sharing the news with Dunith has surfaced on social media. It shows Jayasuriya supporting Wellalage amid clearly one of the worst/biggest moments in his life.

Tragedy strikes Dunith Wellalage during the Asia Cup 2025

Russel Arnold, a former cricketer and now a commentator, reflected on the tragedy on-air, announcing a personal association, saying, “Dunith Wellalage's father, Suranga Wellalage, passed away just a little while ago. He played a bit of cricket also. He captained Prince of Wales College when I captained St Peter's,” Arnold said on Sony Sports Network. Sending his condolences, Arnold added, “Dunith was just informed not too long ago. It is really sad to hear that. Hopefully, this will bring the team together and assist them in moving ahead in the Super 4 stage.”

ALSO SEE: Devdutt Padikkal scores 150 runs during IND A vs AUS A 1st unofficial Test in Lucknow

Suranga Wellalage was part of Sri Lanka’s rich school cricket circuit but never made it into the national setup. His legacy in cricket continues through Dunith, who has been accepted as one of the brightest young prospects coming through Sri Lankan cricket.

Dunith had a tough day on the ground. The left-hand spinner was ravaged for 49 runs in four overs and could only manage one wicket. His toughest opponent on the day was Afghanistan veteran Mohammad Nabi, who blasted five sixes on his way to score a blistering total of 60 runs off 22 balls. 

Despite Afghanistan's brave effort, Sri Lanka managed to win and qualify for the World Cup while at the same time eliminating Afghanistan. The win was marred somewhat by the tragedy involving the Wellalage family, with teammates and fans coming together to grieve and support the young bowler.