Dunith Wellalage is the latest addition to the National ODI team. The 19 year old bowling all-rounder showed his potential at the recently concluded tournaments. First he showed his talent at the school level.The former St Joseph’s Colombo Captain later became the National under 19 captain and represented the under 19 World Cup in West Indies. As soon as he came back home the selectors considered this young cricketer for the National Super League cricket tournament. From that level he easily selected for Sri Lanka Emerging team for the England tour. His next step was representing Sri Lanka ‘A ‘ against Australia ‘A’ during their two ODI’s at the SSC grounds.

From that two Sri Lanka ‘A’ team matches Dunith Wellalage was called for National ODI squad and got debut ODI at Pallekele on last Tuesday and he will be most probably once again get chance to play second ODI today.

Dunith’ s father Suranga and mother

Suranga Wellalage the loving father of Dunith was a very keen cricket lover. As a profession by Business Suranga always likes to see his son Dunith playing games.

He was witness at the Dunith’ s debut game at Pallekele while Daily News caught Dunith Wellalage’ s father Suranga at Pallekele.

“Actually my son is always dedicated to this sport. His ambition is to represent National team but we didn’t think he could have get chance to play National ODI at this early stage”.

Suranga Wellalage was the cricket Captain of Prince of Wales Moratuwa in 1991 later played at club level cricket at Moratuwa SC, Sebastianites, Kurunegala YCC and Dunith followed my foot steps. I never push my elder son Dunith to play cricket. This is his choice and he love cricket.

As a parent, the jubilant moment of the debut Sri Lanka ODI match of Dunith is my dream come true. Dunith also had that dream and we all were really happy and enjoyed the first ODI at Pallekele.

My wife with children went to see that debut game at Pallekele which was a great experience. When my son got his median ODI wicket of most experienced Asustralian cricketer and former skipper Steve Smith, it was really happy and moral boost for him,” added Dunith’s father .

When we played school cricket during our period there were not much facilities. We played with talented players but they couldn’t go long journey with lack of facilities as well as financial issues. However today that type of issues are less. But most important is correct guidance”.Dunith started cricket at St Sebastian’s Moratuwa then crossed over to St Joseph mainly because of cricket. “I think when we select a school for young cricketers it has to do very carefully. We all respect and thank Dunith’s schools and their teachers and coaches for their good guidance”.

“I think as parents we should give our guidance to our children but coaches have more responsibility to give their services to develop players. We are not involved with coaches activities but guide our son and see what he is doing at the field. We never influence any person or the media to get more support for my son”. added Suranga Wellalage.