Military promotes two cricketing soldiers

AFP: Two cricketing soldiers who helped Sri Lanka to victory in recent Twenty20 clashes abroad have been promoted for their exploits on the pitch, the military said Wednesday.

All-rounder Sekkuge Prasanna rose a rank for his strong showing in South Africa while batsman Asela Gunaratne was recognised for his performance against Australia in January.

Prasanna was promoted to Warrant Officer Grade One while Gunaratne, previously a sergeant, was promoted to Warrant Officer Grade Two.

The pair, both aged 31, began their cricketing careers in the army, where they are still enrolled despite their professional sporting commitments.

Gunaratne slammed 84 to power Sri Lanka to a last-ball victory against Australia, clinching the three-match Twenty20 series for the visitors. 

He was named player of the series, and has been included in Sri Lanka’s 15-member squad for the two-match Test series against Bangladesh from next week.

Prasanna scored 37 not out and took one wicket in the third Twenty20 match against South Africa in January, with Sri Lanka claiming the series.