Veteran India leg-spinner Amit Mishra has announced his retirement from all forms of cricket, bringing an end to a career that spanned more than two decades. Mishra, 42, represented India in 22 Tests, 36 ODIs, and 10 T20Is between 2003 and 2017, and was best known for his skillful leg-breaks and deceptive googlies. His last competitive appearance came in IPL 2024 for Lucknow Super Giants (LSG). In a heartfelt social media post, Mishra thanked the BCCI, Haryana Cricket Association, teammates, coaches, and fans for their constant support throughout his cricketing journey.
Mishra was one of the most impactful bowlers in the history of the Indian Premier League. Playing for Delhi Daredevils (now Capitals), Deccan Chargers, Sunrisers Hyderabad, and LSG, he featured in 162 matches and picked up 174 wickets, finishing eighth on the all-time wicket-takers list. Notably, he remains the only bowler with three IPL hat-tricks, achieved in 2008, 2011, and 2013, a record that stands unmatched. Apart from IPL success, Mishra was a consistent performer in domestic cricket for Haryana since making his first-class debut in 2000-01.
His international career was marked by moments of brilliance but also inconsistency. Mishra made his Test debut in 2008 against Australia at Mohali, grabbing a five-wicket haul in his very first match. However, with Anil Kumble and Harbhajan Singh being the mainstay spinners of that era, his opportunities remained limited. Despite that, Mishra made impactful comebacks, including a memorable run during the 2013 Champions Trophy and the 2014 T20 World Cup, where his variations troubled top international batsmen.
In his retirement note, Mishra described cricket as his “first love, teacher, and greatest source of joy,” reflecting on the struggles of his early days and the pride of representing India. He expressed gratitude to his family for standing by him through highs and lows and acknowledged the fans for their unwavering support. As he steps away from playing, Mishra hinted at looking forward to giving back to the sport that shaped him. His retirement marks the end of an era for Indian leg-spin, with Mishra leaving behind a legacy of resilience, artistry, and unforgettable IPL milestones.
