Sri Lanka booked their place in the Super Four after defeating Afghanistan by 6 wickets in a thrilling encounter. However, the Sri Lankan camp was filled with sadness as they celebrated their victory. All-rounder Dunith Vellalaghe received the news of the death of his father Suranga Vellalaghe after the match.
The country’s media outlet Adaderana says that Vellalag received the heartbreaking news while he was in the dressing room. First, he was informed about the emergency medical arrangements at home, and then immediately informed that Vellalag’s father was no more. Upon receiving the news, Sri Lankan coach Sanath Jayasuriya rushed to console the 22-year-old cricketer.
Several media outlets reported that Vellalaghe immediately left Abu Dhabi for Sri Lanka. He was accompanied on the journey by Sri Lankan team manager Mahinda Halangoda.
Vellalaghe was included in the playing XI in the crucial match of the Super Four qualifier against Afghanistan, leaving out Mahesh Thiksana. However, he could not perform very well. Although he gave away 17 runs in the first three overs, he will want to forget the last over. In the last over of Vellalaghe’s innings, Afghanistan’s Mohammad Nabi took 31 runs by hitting five sixes, making a total of 32 runs in that over.
Nabi received the news of Vellalag’s father’s death while leaving the stadium after the match. He was also seen in a state of shock. Later, he expressed his condolences on his social media account. He wrote, “Deeply saddened by the death of Dunith Vellalag’s father. Stay strong brother.”
Meanwhile, Bangladesh captain Liton Kumar Das also expressed his condolences. In an emotional message, Liton wrote, “Keep your head high, Dunith Vellalag. We are deeply saddened by the news of the death of your father Suranga Vellalag (54). He was also a cricketer. May the Almighty grant his soul eternal peace and give strength, courage and comfort to you and your family in this difficult time. Dunith, stay strong, the entire cricket world is with you.” The shadow of grief has also fallen on Sri Lankan cricket. Starting with Lasith Malinga, many have expressed their condolences.
FAQ
What happened to Dunith Vellalaghe after Sri Lanka’s win over Afghanistan?
Dunith Vellalaghe received the tragic news that his father, Suranga Vellalaghe, had passed away immediately after the match.
How did the Sri Lankan team respond to the news?
Coach Sanath Jayasuriya rushed to console Dunith, and team manager Mahinda Halangoda accompanied him back to Sri Lanka.
How did Dunith perform in the match?
Dunith played in the Super Four qualifier, conceding 32 runs in the last over, but the team still won by 6 wickets.
Did other players show support for Dunith?
Yes, Afghan player Mohammad Nabi, Bangladesh captain Liton Kumar Das, and other cricketers including Lasith Malinga expressed condolences and support.