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