Wellalage returns to Asia Cup 2025 after playing respect to late father, available for Sri Lanka vs Bangladesh
Sri Lanka all-rounder Dunith Wellalage, who returned home after his father’s demise, will return to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to join the side for the ongoing Asia Cup 2025, Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) said in a statement on Friday.
“Wellalage, who returned home to pay his last respects to his late father, will rejoin the team tomorrow morning. He will travel to the UAE tonight, accompanied by Team Manager Mahinda Halangode,” the SLC said.
Sri Lanka is scheduled to face Bangladesh on September 20 in a Super Four match, followed by clashes against Pakistan and India on September 23 and 26, respectively.
Wellalage will be available for selection for the clash against Bangladesh. The 22-year-old learnt about his father’s death just after Sri Lanka beat Afghanistan in a Group B match on Thursday, and left for his country on the earliest available flight.
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“Dunith, your father was a cricketer himself, and he can be truly proud of the son he raised. His values, his love for the game, and his spirit live on through you. I know how strong you are, and I have no doubt that you will continue to make him proud by winning many games for Sri Lanka,” Sanath Jayasuriya, former Sri Lanka captain and current head coach, wrote on social media.
“At this difficult moment, please remember that you are not alone. I will be there for you like a father — guiding you, standing with you, and supporting you every step of the way. The entire team, the nation, and everyone who loves this sport are by your side.”
Wellalage has played 31 ODIs and five T20Is, with the match against Afghanistan — on September 18 — being his first appearance in the 2025 Asia Cup. He bowled four overs in that match, picking up the wicket of Ibrahim Zadran while conceding 49 runs.
Published on Sep 19, 2025
