NEW DELHI: Afghanistan all-rounder Mohammad Nabi was left stunned after being informed of the sudden passing of Sri Lankan spinner Dunith Wellalage's father, moments after their Asia Cup Group B encounter at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi.
Nabi, one of Afghanistan's most experienced cricketers, had earlier produced a breathtaking knock - smashing 60 runs off just 22 balls, including five sixes in Wellalage's final over. However, his match-winning fireworks were instantly overshadowed by the heartbreaking development.
Video clips from the venue captured the moment journalists broke the news to Nabi, whose immediate reaction was one of visible disbelief and concern.
Reporter: "Dunith Wellalage's father passed away."
Nabi: "Father? How?"
Reporter: "Heart attack. Just after the match."
Nabi: "Really? Heart attack?"
The moment reporters told Mohammad Nabi about passing away of Dinuth Wellalage Father due to heart attack.
— Rajiv (@Rajiv1841) September 18, 2025
Reporter told him that it happened during mid break of the match & sri lankan team told wellalage after the game.pic.twitter.com/OQT30OqvSE
Shortly after, Nabi extended his condolences on social media, posting: "Heartfelt condolences to Dunith Wellalage and his family on the loss of his beloved father. Stay strong, Brother," accompanied by a photo of the young spinner with his father.
Heartfelt condolences to Dunith Wellalage and his family on the loss of his beloved father.
— Mohammad Nabi (@MohammadNabi007) September 18, 2025
Stay strong Brother pic.twitter.com/d6YF2BhlnV
Wellalage has returned home and it is unclear whether the 22-year-old will return for the tournament where Sri Lanka are playing Bangladesh in a Super 4 match on Saturday.
Sri Lanka sealed a six-wicket victory, successfully chasing Afghanistan's 170 with eight balls to spare. The result secured their place at the top of Group B and booked a Super Four clash against Bangladesh at the Dubai International Stadium on Saturday.