Asia Cup 2025: Dunith Wellalage flies back home after the sudden demise of father Suranga, to miss rest of the games - Reports

Ankitjit Singh is a Sub-Editor at Khel Now, known for his in-depth knowledge of cricket.

Published at :September 19, 2025 at 4:22 PM

Modified at :September 19, 2025 at 4:23 PM

(Courtesy : ACC)

Dunith Wellalage played his first game of Asia Cup 2025 against Afghanistan in Abu Dhabi.

Sri Lanka Cricket Team all-rounder Dunith Wellalage faced an irreplaceable blow amid the match against Afghanistan in the ongoing Asia Cup 2025. His father Suranga Wellalage died on Thursday, September 18, at a time when he was playing.

Dunith Wellalage got to know about it moments after Sri Lanka’s last group-stage fixture against Afghanistan ended. The all-rounder was informed by head coach Sanath Jayasuriya after the clip of that went viral on the internet with many paying condolences to the Sri Lanka star.

After learning about his father’s demise, Dunith Wellalage rushed back home. The reports in ESPNCricinfo claimed that the all-rounder won’t be taking part in the remainder of Asia Cup 2025 anymore. Sri Lanka are scheduled to play three games in the Super Four against Bangladesh on September 20, Pakistan on September 23, and against India on September 26.

Dunith Wellalage so far has played only five T20Is for Sri Lanka, the fifth of which was against Afghanistan. The game was his first in the ongoing Asia Cup 2025 and he had a bad day with the ball, getting hit for five sixes in the last over of the innings by Mohammad Nabi.

Dunith Wellalage’s absence from the Asia Cup 2025 will come as a big blow for Sri Lanka

Thankfully, that didn’t cost Sri Lanka as they went on to register a magnificent win. After conceding 169 in their 20 overs, Sri Lanka chased the target with six wickets in hand and eight balls remaining to qualify for the Super Four round of the tournament.

Wellalage’s absence from Asia Cup 2025 will come as a big blow for Sri Lanka, especially with the Super Four around the corner and pitches likely to be spin-friendly. Sri Lanka are yet to announce the replacement and it remains to be seen if they name one or not.

Sri Lanka have been in terrific form in the ongoing Asia Cup 2025. They ended the group stage without losing a single game, beating Bangladesh, Hong Kong and Afghanistan. They would be keen to carry on that form and lift another title.

How many T20Is has Dunith Wellalage for Sri Lanka?

Dunith Wellalage has played five T20Is for Sri Lanka.

Will Dunith Wellalage play Super Four stage of the Asia Cup 2025?

As per the reports in ESPNCricinfo, Dunith Wellalage won’t return back to UAE after demise of his father.

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Ankitjit Singh

Ankitjit Singh is a dedicated sports journalist whose childhood dream was to play cricket—now, he serves the game through his work. With over three years of experience in reporting, writing, and editing, he brings deep insight to his coverage. A journalism graduate from Delhi University, Ankitjit’s passion for cricket took root during his college days and continues to drive his career.