July 08, Colombo: Sri Lankan spinner Ajantha Mendis has been elevated to the rank of Second Lieutenant in Sri Lanka Army on a directive given by the President Mahinda Rajapaksa.

Private Ajantha Mendis who claimed six wickets for 13 runs to help the Sri Lankan team to a 100-run win against India during the recently concluded Asia Cup cricket tournament was promoted yesterday as a Sergeant by an order given by Army Commander Major General Sarath Fonseka before being elevated by the President.

Before entering international cricket Ajantha was a Gunner in the Sri Lanka Army Artillery unit.