Dubai: Sri Lankan all-rounder Dunith Wellalage has been struck by personal tragedy, as his father passed away on Thursday while the cricketer was in Dubai Representing Sri Lanka in the ongoing Asia Cup 2025.

According to team sources, Dunith Wellalage was informed of the heartbreaking news by the Sri Lankan team manager shortly after the conclusion of the group stage match against Afghanistan. The Sri Lankan team management, coaching staff and fellow players have extended their heartfelt condolence and full support to Wellalaga during this difficult time.

On behalf of the entire team, we express our deepest sympathy to Dunith and his family. The players and staff are standing by him both emotionally and in any way he may need, a senior official from Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) stated:

No son should go through this💔

Advertisement

Jayasuriya & team manager right after the game communicated Dinuth Wellalage the news of his father’s passing away.pic.twitter.com/KbmQrHTCju

— Rajiv (@Rajiv1841) September 18, 2025

Despite the emotional burden Wellalaga played in the match against Afghanistan, delivering four over in which he conceded 49 runs and picked up one wicket. In challenging moment he was hit for five consecutive sixes by Afghanistan experienced all-rounder Mohammad Nabi during his final over.

Sri Lanka went on to win the match by six wickets, which was the 11^th fixture of the Asia Cup T20 2025. The victory secured their qualifications for the Super Four stage of the tournament