Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha, along with senior Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) officials, extended heartfelt condolences to Sri Lanka’s young spinner Dunith Wellalage following the sudden passing of his father, Suranga Wellalage.
The PCB shared a video on its official social media accounts showing the captain and team management consoling the 22-year-old in the dressing room after Sri Lanka’s victory over Afghanistan in their Asia Cup 2025 Group B clash at Zayed Cricket Stadium.
PCB’s condolences to Wellalage
Those present included white-ball head coach Mike Hesson, Chief Operating Manager Sumair Ahmed Syed, PCB advisor Salman Naseer, and team manager Naveed Akram Cheema. Together, they offered words of comfort to the grieving spinner, who had just helped Sri Lanka secure a Super Four berth in the tournament.
Wellalage’s father tragically passed away from a heart attack while the cricketer was on national duty.
Emotional message from Wellalage
In an emotional post on Instagram, Wellalage expressed his grief and gratitude to those who supported him during what he described as the “most painful time” of his life.
“Losing him has left a void that can never be filled, but the love, strength, and support I received gave me the courage to keep moving forward,” he wrote.
The spinner thanked Sri Lanka Cricket, his sponsors, law enforcement authorities, medical staff, and his former schools and cricket clubs for their support.
Tribute to mentors and teammates
Wellalage also acknowledged the encouragement of cricketing legends, coaches, and current teammates, including Sanath Jayasuriya, Mahinda Halangoda, and Charith Asalanka.
“A special thank you to Sanath Sir, Mahinda Halangoda Sir, and the entire national coaching staff, as well as Charith Aiya and my brothers in the Sri Lanka National Team,” he said.
Gratitude to Sri Lankan people
The 22-year-old reserved his deepest gratitude for the people of Sri Lanka, saying their prayers and messages gave him strength to endure the tragedy.
“Most importantly, I want to thank the people of Sri Lanka. Your prayers, messages, and unconditional support reminded me that I am never alone,” he noted.
Concluding his message, Wellalage said he would continue pursuing his cricketing journey to fulfill his late father’s dream.
“My father’s dream was for me to continue this journey, and with all of you beside me, I will do everything I can to honor him,” he wrote.
