When the game of cricket collided with the cruelties of life

Cricket is often described as a game of glorious uncertainties. However, sometimes the most significant uncertainties arise not on the pitch but in life itself. The Asia Cup 2025 saw such a sombre moment when Sri Lanka's young all-rounder Dunith Wellalage was struck by tragedy.

Wellalage's heartbreak in Abu Dhabi

On September 18, 2025, Thursday night in Abu Dhabi, Wellalage was informed of the death of his father, Suranga Wellalage, aged 54, shortly after Sri Lanka’s win over Afghanistan that secured their place in the Super Four. At just 22, Dunith was living every cricketer’s dream - competing in a continental tournament.

However, in an instant, the victory felt empty. Head coach Sanath Jayasuriya and the team manager delivered the heartbreaking news on the field. Wellalage flew home immediately, and his participation in the rest of the Asia Cup now remains uncertain.

As harsh as it seems, Wellalage is not the first cricketer to have faced such grief during a significant event. Over the years, many others have endured the unbearable pain of personal loss while also bearing the responsibility of representing their country.

Sachin Tendulkar in the 1999 world cup

Perhaps the most renowned example occurred in 1999, when Sachin Tendulkar lost his father, Ramesh Tendulkar, during the ICC World Cup in England. Sachin flew back to India to attend the funeral but soon rejoined the squad, determined to honour his father’s memory.

Credit: @Shebas_10dulkar

In his very first match after returning against Kenya, he scored a century, an innings filled not just with skill but with emotion. For many fans, it remains one of the most moving moments in Indian cricket.

Virat Kohli's test of resolve at 17

Back in 2006, a young Virat Kohli faced a tough challenge during a Ranji Trophy game for Delhi against Karnataka. Sadly, his father, Prem Kohli, passed away in the early morning hours.

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Despite this heartbreaking news, Virat decided to stay focused and took to the field, scoring an important 90 runs that helped prevent Delhi from losing. Right after getting out, he left the pitch to attend his father's cremation. That day, Kohli showed us the incredible strength and determination that would go on to define his inspiring career.

Fatima Sana's sudden exit from the World Cup

In 2023, PAK’s women’s team captain Fatima Sana had to leave the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup following the sudden death of her father in Karachi. Just 22 years old and leading her country in a global tournament, Sana’s grief cut short what should have been the proudest days of her young career.

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Vice-captain Muneeba Ali stepped in as skipper, but the absence of Sana underscored the fragility of life beyond sport.

Gordon Greenidge's anguish in 1983

Cricket’s history is filled with such heartrending tales. In 1983, West Indies opener Gordon Greenidge was in Antigua, batting on a splendid 154 in a Test match, when he learnt that his daughter had fallen gravely ill.

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He left immediately for Barbados to be with her, but she passed away two days later. His innings remained unfinished, a haunting reminder that sometimes runs and records pale in comparison to family.

Alzarri Joseph's silent strength in 2019

In 2019, during a Test against England in Antigua, West Indies fast bowler Alzarri Joseph was informed of his mother’s death. Nevertheless, he chose to continue playing, even coming out to bat despite his grief.

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In a rare display of sportsmanship, the England players shook his hand and patted his back as he took guard. It was a gesture that transcended rivalry, offering comfort in a moment of profound loss.