Sri Lanka’s promising all-rounder Dunith Wellalage has left the Asia Cup in Abu Dhabi to return to Colombo following the sudden death of his father, Suranga Wellalage, who suffered a heart attack on Thursday night at the age of 54. The 22-year-old learned of the tragedy after playing a Group B league match against Afghanistan on the same day, where he bowled four overs, taking the wicket of Ibrahim Zadran while conceding 49 runs in his fifth T20I appearance.

Wellalage departed for Sri Lanka on the earliest available flight, and it remains uncertain whether he will return for the tournament. Sri Lanka are scheduled to face Bangladesh in a Super 4 match on Saturday, followed by games against Pakistan on September 23 and India on September 26.

The cricketing community rallied around Wellalage with messages of support. Former Sri Lanka captain Lasith Malinga expressed his condolences on X, writing, “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.”

Afghanistan’s veteran cricketer Mohammad Nabi also shared, “Heartfelt condolences to Dunith Wellalage and his family on the loss of his beloved father. Stay strong brother.”

Also Read: Childhood Friends Vinayak Shukla and Kuldeep Yadav Set for Asia Cup 2025 Showdown

Sri Lanka head coach Sanath Jayasuriya, a batting legend who informed Wellalage of his father’s passing after the Afghanistan match, paid a heartfelt tribute on Facebook. “Dunith, your father was a cricketer himself, and he can be truly proud of the son he raised. His values, his love for the game, and his spirit live on through you. I know how strong you are, and I have no doubt that you will continue to make him proud by winning many games for Sri Lanka,” Jayasuriya wrote.

He added, “At this difficult moment, please remember that you are not alone. I will be there for you like a father—guiding you, standing with you, and supporting you every step of the way. The entire team, the nation, and everyone who loves this sport are by your side.”

Sri Lanka secured a six-wicket victory over Afghanistan, driven by an unbeaten 74 off 52 balls from wicketkeeper-batter Kusal Mendis. As Wellalage mourns, the cricketing world stands united in support, hoping for his strength and return to the field.

Also Read: Rashid Khan Expresses Disappointment After Afghanistan Eliminated