Sri Lanka's latest spin sensation Ajantha Mendis is mobbed by the media as the team arrived at the Bandaranaike International Airport in Katunayake on Wednesday.

Sri Lanka [Images] beat India by 100 runs in the final of the six-nation Asia Cup, with Mendis claiming a mesmerising six-wicket haul.

- Asia Cup Coverage

Mendis was adjudged the man of the match and the series, as he emerged as the highest wicket-taker with 17 wickets in five matches at an average of 8.52.

The unorthodox spinner has been promoted to the rank of second lieutenant in the army after his match-winning exploits.

The 23-year-old soldier was promoted five ranks in the army by the island's President Mahinda Rajapakse in recognition of his performance.

Photograph: LAKRUWAN WANNIARACHCHI/AFP/Getty Images