Wellalage’s Triumphant Return: Honoring Legacy in Sri Lanka vs Bangladesh Showdown

Sri Lankan all-rounder Dunith Wellalage is set to rejoin his team in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) for the ongoing Asia Cup 2025 after returning home due to his father’s passing. Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) announced on Friday that Wellalage will rejoin the team on Saturday morning, traveling to the UAE with Team Manager Mahinda Halangode.

Sri Lanka is slated to play against Bangladesh on September 20 in a Super Four match, followed by games against Pakistan and India on September 23 and 26. Wellalage will be available for selection against Bangladesh. The 22-year-old learned of his father’s death shortly after Sri Lanka’s victory over Afghanistan in a Group B match on Thursday and departed for home immediately.

Former Sri Lanka captain and current head coach, Sanath Jayasuriya, expressed his support on social media, writing, “Dunith, your father was a cricketer himself and would be truly proud of the son he raised. His values, love for the game, and spirit live on through you. I know how strong you are and am confident you will continue to honor him by achieving many victories for Sri Lanka. In this difficult time, remember you are not alone. I will be there for you as a father figure—guiding, standing with, and supporting you every step of the way. The entire team, the nation, and everyone who loves this sport are by your side.”

Wellalage, who has played 31 ODIs and five T20Is, made his 2025 Asia Cup debut against Afghanistan on September 18, bowling four overs and taking the wicket of Ibrahim Zadran while conceding 49 runs.

Published on Sep 19, 2025