9.7.2008

President of Sri Lanka and Commander-in-Chief, H.E Mahinda Rajapaksa, Tuesday (July 8) promoted the Asia Cup cricketing hero Ajantha Mendis from the rank of Sergeant in the SL Army to Second Lieutenant.

Ajantha, the newest Sri Lankan revelation into the world cricketing game was also adjudged the man of the match at the Asia cup finale and man of the series for his outstanding performance with the ball.

With best of the bowling figures 6 wickets for just 13 runs in 8 overs against the mighty Indians, reserved the place along with spin wizard Muttiah Muralitharan as the most lethal one-day spin bowling combination in the world.

The mystery spinner dominated the Asia cup tournament ending up been the highest wicket taker, snaring 17 scalps. Ajantha, known as the 'cricketing soldier', was received today (9) morning by President Mahinda Rajapaksa at Temple Trees, along with the Asian Cup champs led by Mahela Jayawardena.

Photos courtesy of Defense.lk & Daily Mirror