Tragic News for Sri Lankan Spinner Dunith Wellalage During Asia Cup 2025

In a heartbreaking turn of events during the Asia Cup 2025, Sri Lankan spinner Dunith Wellalage learned of his father's passing from a heart attack while playing against Afghanistan. Coach Sanath Jayasuriya and team manager delivered the tragic news after the match, leading to a poignant moment with Mohammad Nabi, who expressed his shock and condolences. Despite the team's victory, Wellalage struggled on the field, conceding 49 runs and taking only one wicket. This incident highlights the emotional challenges athletes face amidst competition.

By Narendra Chaudhary Sep 19, 2025, 09:59 IST

Heartbreaking Loss for Dunith Wellalage

Dunith Wellalage, a promising 22-year-old spinner from Sri Lanka, faced a devastating personal loss during the Asia Cup 2025. His father, Suranga Wellalage, passed away from a heart attack on Thursday, September 18, while Dunith was competing against Afghanistan in Abu Dhabi. The tragic news reached him just after Sri Lanka secured their victory.

Coach Sanath Jayasuriya and the team manager broke the heartbreaking news to Wellalage. Jayasuriya was seen providing comfort to the young player as he was escorted away from the field. A video has emerged showing reporters informing Mohammad Nabi about the incident, who had just hit five sixes off Wellalage's bowling. Nabi was visibly shocked and expressed his condolences upon hearing the news.

The exchange between the reporters and Nabi unfolded as follows:

Reporter: "Dunith Wellalage's father has passed away."

Mohammad Nabi: "Father? How?"

Reporter: "From a heart attack, just after the match."

Mohammad Nabi: "Really?"

Reporter: "The news came during the match, but Dunith was informed only after it concluded."

Mohammad Nabi (in disbelief): "Heart attack?"

Reporter: "Yes."

In the match itself, despite Sri Lanka's win, it was a challenging day for Wellalage, who gave away 49 runs in four overs. Nabi's impressive performance included five sixes in the final over bowled by Wellalage, who managed to take only one wicket, dismissing Ibrahim Zadran in the 13th over.