Suranga Wellalage, the father of Sri Lankan national cricketer Dunith Wellalage, has passed away at the age of 54 following a sudden heart attack. A former cricketer himself, Suranga died on September 18 — the same day his 22-year-old son represented Sri Lanka in their Asia Cup Group B clash against Afghanistan in Abu Dhabi.
Dunith, unaware of the tragedy, completed the match which Sri Lanka won by six wickets to advance unbeaten to the Super Four stage. He received the devastating news only after returning to the dressing room, where initial reports had described it as a “medical emergency” at home.
Head Coach Sanath Jayasuriya, who was visibly emotional, consoled the young all-rounder as the jubilant atmosphere in the Sri Lankan camp turned into stunned silence.
Dunith deSuranga Wellalage, the father of Sri Lankan national cricketer Dunith Wellalage, has passed away at the age of 54 following a sudden heart attack. A former cricketer himself, Suranga died on September 18 — the same day his 22-year-old son represented Sri Lanka in their Asia Cup Group B clash against Afghanistan in Abu Dhabi.
Dunith, unaware of the tragedy, completed the match which Sri Lanka won by six wickets to advance unbeaten to the Super Four stage. He received the devastating news only after returning to the dressing room, where initial reports had described it as a “medical emergency” at home.
Head Coach Sanath Jayasuriya, who was visibly emotional, consoled the young all-rounder as the jubilant atmosphere in the Sri Lankan camp turned into stunned silence.
Dunith departed Abu Dhabi early this morning (19) with team manager Mahinda Halangoda to return to Colombo and be with his grieving family.parted Abu Dhabi early the following morning with team manager Mahinda Halangoda to return to Colombo and be with his grieving family.
