Dunith Wellalage of Sri Lanka has returned home from the ongoing Asia Cup as his father, Suranga, died on Thursday night. The all-rounder was playing against Afghanistan in the Group B game on that day.
Wellalage took the earliest flight to Colombo after learning of his father’s passing only after the game. There is uncertainty around the 22-year-old’s availability for Saturday’s Super 4 encounter between Bangladesh and Sri Lanka.
Sri Lanka’s match against Bangladesh will be followed by matches against Pakistan on September 23 and India on September 26.
“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,” wrote former Sri Lanka captain Lasith Malinga on X.
“Heartfelt condolences to Dunith Wellalage and his family on the loss of his beloved father. Stay strong brother,” wrote veteran Afghanistan cricketer Mohammad Nabi on his X handle.
In his four overs against Afghanistan, left-arm spinner Wellalage claimed the wicket of Ibrahim Zadran while conceding 49 runs in what was his fifth Twenty20 International.
After wicketkeeper-batter Kusal Mendis scored an unbeaten 74 from 52 balls, Sri Lanka won the game by six wickets.
