Dunith Wellalage unlikely to return for Asia Cup Super Four after immediately flying back home due to father's death

The 22-year-old, who featured in Sri Lanka’s Group B match against Afghanistan in Lahore on the same day, was informed of the tragic news only after the game concluded. Wellalage immediately left for Colombo on the earliest available flight.

It remains uncertain whether he will return in time to participate in the Super Four stage of the tournament, where Sri Lanka is set to face Bangladesh on Saturday, followed by crucial encounters against Pakistan on September 23 and India on September 26.

As things stand now, it is more or less certain that he will miss the Bangladesh match on Saturday.

Dunith Wellalage was informed by Sri Lanka head coach Sanath Jayasuriya about the tragic news after the match.

Wellalage, a promising left-arm spinner, played a key role in Sri Lanka’s six-wicket win over Afghanistan, claiming the wicket of opener Ibrahim Zadran in his four-over spell despite conceding 49 runs. It marked his fifth appearance in T20 Internationals.

The cricketing community has come together in support of the young cricketer during this difficult time. Former Sri Lanka captain Lasith Malinga expressed his condolences on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), saying:

"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 veteran Mohammad Nabi, who hit Wellalage for five sixes on Thursday, also extended his sympathies:

"Heartfelt condolences to Dunith Wellalage and his family on the loss of his beloved father. Stay strong brother."

The Sri Lanka team management has yet to make an official announcement regarding a potential replacement for Wellalage, should he be unavailable for the remainder of the tournament.

As Sri Lanka gears up for a demanding Super Four stage, the thoughts of fans and players alike remain with Wellalage and his family.

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