Did Dunith Wellalage play against Afghanistan on Thursday with a heavy heart after coming to know about the untimely demise of his father? Sri Lankan media reports said that the 22-year-old all-rounder was not informed about the passing of his father Suranga Wellalage until the group clash was over. It was after the Islanders successfully completed the run chase to secure a slot in the Super Four stage that the tragic news was broken to him.
Dunith's father Suranga Wellalage breathed his last at the age of 54 following a sudden heart attack on Thursday. Suranga Wellalage was a former cricketer himself.
While inside the dressing room after the match, the youngster was initially informed about a medical emergency at home. Later, he was informed that his father was no more, Sri Lankan media reports said. Head coach Sanath Jayasuriya, visibly emotional upon hearing the news, was moved to tears and spent time comforting the young all-rounder, Sri Lanka-based Ada Derana said in a report.
Dunith departed for Sri Lanka early on Friday morning from Abu Dhabi, accompanied by team manager Mahinda Halangoda, reports said.
The mood among the Sri Lankan squad had shifted from jubilation to shock. Having just secured a crucial win to top their group, players left the stadium in silence, their celebrations halted by the sombre news.
