Amit Mishra announces retirement after 25 years, ending a career filled with IPL records and 156 international wickets. (Photo: X/MishiAmit)
After a lengthy 25-year career, veteran Indian leg-spinner Amit Mishra has retired from all forms of cricket. The 42-year-old, who last represented India in 2017, remained active in both domestic cricket and IPL until 2024.
After a five-wicket haul in his Test debut, he concluded with 156 international wickets, 174 IPL wickets, and a record three hat-tricks. His retirement brings an end to a period of proficiency, reliability, and multi-format records.
At 42, Amit Mishra decided it was time to stop playing the game he had loved for so many years. He had not played for India since 2017 but stayed active in state cricket and the IPL. His last appearance came for Lucknow Super Giants in IPL 2024.
Explaining his decision, Mishra said injuries and the need to give younger players a chance played a role. "Today, after 25 years, I announce my retirement from cricket, a game that has been my first love, my teacher, and my greatest source of joy," he said.
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Amit Mishra made a dream debut in 2008 when he played against Australia in Mohali. He took five wickets in his very first Test match. Over the years, he played 22 Tests, 36 ODIs, and 10 T20Is for India, picking up 156 wickets.
Even though he did not play regularly for India, he was always praised for being dependable and effective whenever given a chance.
Amit Mishra left his greatest impression in IPL, where he became one of the greatest IPL wicket-takers ever with 174 wickets in 162 games. He also holds a special record of being the only bowler in IPL history to take three hat-tricks against Delhi Daredevils in 2008, Deccan Chargers in 2011, and Sunrisers Hyderabad in 2013.
In his retirement message, Mishra thanked everyone who supported him. "This journey has been filled with countless emotions, moments of pride, hardship, learning, and love.
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I am deeply grateful to the BCCI, Haryana Cricket Association, my coaches, support staff, colleagues, and most importantly, the fans, whose faith and support gave me strength at every step," he said.
Amit Mishra’s decision marks the end of an important era for Indian leg-spin. Now, young spinners will carry the legacy forward, but his IPL records, like three hat-tricks, may remain unmatched for a long time.
His story shows how the IPL gave a chance to players who were not always regular in international cricket to shine.
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