Sri Lanka, Sept. 19 -- Sri Lanka Cricket coach and former captain Sanath Jayasuriya shared a heartfelt message following the passing of Suranga Wellalage, father of rising cricket star Dunith Wellalage.

I am deeply saddened by the passing of Mr. Suranga Wellalage, a father, a cricketer, and a man who raised a son the entire nation is proud of.

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.

At this difficult moment, please remember that you are not alone. I will be there for you like a father-guidin...