WATCH: Afghanistan all-rounder reacts to Dunith Wellalage’s father’s passing after Asia Cup 2025 match
Mohammad Nabi was left shocked after learning of Dunith Wellalage’s father’s passing following Afghanistan’s Asia Cup 2025 defeat to Sri Lanka.
After match 11 of the Asia Cup 2025 between Sri Lanka and Afghanistan, Afghanistan all-rounder Mohammad Nabi was surprised to find out about Dunith Wellalage's father tragic death. Coach Sanath Jayasuriya and the team manager informed Dunith of his father, Suranga Wellalage’s, untimely passing on Thursday, September 18, after the conclusion of the game.
Nabi, who had faced Wellalage earlier in the match, only learned about the news while heading back to the team bus after Afghanistan’s six-wicket loss. A group of journalists informed him of the tragic development, leaving Nabi stunned and apologetic as he tried to process the information. Jayasuriya and Sri Lanka's team manager consoled the 22-year-old before he packed up his equipment and made his way from the dugout to the pavilion.
Earlier in the game, Nabi had hammered Wellalage for five sixes in the final over of Afghanistan’s innings. Even though he made a late blitz, Afghanistan was still not enough to save them from a six-wicket defeat and thus their departure from the tournament. Kusal Mendis (74* off 52) took the Player of the Match award with him after his brilliant innings, which led Sri Lanka to win.
Solidarity and Support from the Cricketing Community
The cricket community, which includes Nabi and Sri Lanka Cricket, has sent a message of support to Dunith Wellalage during this difficult time. The young bowler was energetic and sharp during his three-overs spell for 17 runs before the heartbreak in final over; however, he was able to demonstrate his talent in the middle amidst the tragedy
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This incident highlights the emotional challenge a player can experience, even in the middle of a game. Though in sorrow, Wellalage also showed great control over his game and the solidarity of not only the team but also the cricket community has been very important in the process of his healing.
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