The global cricketing community has expressed deep sorrow over the sudden demise of Suranga Wellalage, father of young Sri Lankan all-rounder Dunith Wellalage, who was representing Sri Lanka in the Asia Cup tournament.
Suranga Wellalage, a former cricketer, passed away on 18 September at the age of 54, reportedly due to a sudden heart attack. His passing coincided with the day Dunith represented Sri Lanka in their Asia Cup Group B match against Afghanistan in Abu Dhabi.
Many international cricketers have extended their condolences to Dunith and his family. Former Afghanistan captain Mohammad Nabi, who played a crucial innings for his team in the same match, shared a heartfelt message on X (formerly Twitter) alongside a photograph of Dunith with his father, saying, “Heartfelt condolences to Dunith Wellalage and his family on the loss of his beloved father. Stay strong Brother.”
Bangladesh T20 captain Litton Das also offered his sympathies, writing, “Keep your head high, Dunith Wellalage. Deeply saddened to hear about the passing of your father, Suranga Wellalage, at the age of 54. A former cricketer himself. May the Almighty grant him eternal peace and give strength to the family in this difficult time.”
Additionally, Bangladesh players Taskin Ahmed and Towhid Hridoy, among others, joined in expressing their condolences.
