In a tragic news, Sri Lankan all-rounder Dunith Wellalage was left devastated after his father's sudden demise during the Sri Lanka vs Afghanistan encounter at the Asia Cup 2025.
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Sri Lanka was facing Afghanistan in a virtual knockout on September 18th, in a game that went down to the penultimate over. The Lankans eventually pulled off to win the game by 7 wickets.
Dunith Wellalage suffered a personal loss during Asia Cup
Dunith Wellalage, one of Sri Lanka's promising young all-rounder had a very tough day both on and off the field. The 22-year-old suffered a huge loss with the sudden demise of his father due to a heart attack.
To make things worse, the youngster was smashed for five sixes in an over by Afghanistan's veteran Mohammad Nabi in the final over of the first innings.
While people witnessed the brutal assault on the youngster, what they didn't know was that the man was silently grappling with grief.
The moment when Sri Lanka’s coach Sanath Jayasuriya and Team manager informed Dunith Wellallage about the demise of his father right after the match. Dunith’s father passed away due to a sudden heart attack. He was 54.🥲
— Nibraz Ramzan (@nibraz88cricket) September 18, 2025
video credits- Dhanushka pic.twitter.com/P01nFFWlVW
Several former cricketers and Afghanistan veteran Mohammad Nabi have come to support Wellalage during this difficult period, offering their condolences to his late father.
"Heartfelt condolences to Dunith Wellalage and his family on the loss of his beloved father. Stay strong, Brother," posted Mohammad Nabi on his Twitter account.
Deeply saddened by the passing of Mr. Suranga Wellalage, father of Dunith Wellalage. My heartfelt condolences to the family. Stay strong, Dunith. The whole nation stands with you and your family in this difficult time.
— Lasith Malinga (@malinga_ninety9) September 18, 2025
May he attain the supreme bliss of Nibbana.🙏
Did Sri Lanka make it to the Super Fours?
Sri Lanka eventually won the game by 7 wickets, and with the win, they also got through to the Super Fours stage. Afghanistan, on the other hand, have been knocked out of the tournament, while Bangladesh has confirmed a berth in the next stage as well.
The Super Fours stage will commence on September 20th, with the arch-rivals Sri Lanka and Bangladesh colliding at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.
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