‘Remember you are not alone…’: Sanath Jayasuriya shares heartfelt words to Dunith Wellalage over his father’s death

Sri Lanka head coach and batting great Sanath Jayasuriya, who informed the young cricketer about the tragedy after the match, paid tribute to Wellalage’s father in a social media post and promised to stand by him through the difficult time.

“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,” he posted on Facebook.

“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,” he added.

Wellalage learned of his father’s demise only after the match, and he left for Colombo on the earliest available flight. Suranga died after suffering a heart attack. He was 54.

It is unclear whether the 22-year-old will return for the tournament where Sri Lanka are playing Bangladesh in a Super 4 match here on Saturday.