
Veteran leg-spinner Amit Mishra retires from cricket after 25-year career
Veteran Indian leg-spinner Amit Mishra has announced his retirement from all forms of professional cricket, closing a remarkable career that spanned more than 25 years across domestic, international, and IPL stages.
Mishra, 41, represented India in 22 Tests, 36 ODIs, and 10 T20Is, taking 76, 64, and 16 wickets respectively. Known for his sharp variations and consistency, he said recurring injuries and the desire to make way for younger players influenced his decision.
“These 25 years of my life in cricket have been nothing short of memorable,” Mishra said in a statement. He expressed gratitude to the BCCI, Haryana Cricket Association, coaches, teammates, family, and fans, acknowledging their unwavering support throughout his journey.
Mishra made his India debut in 2003 in an ODI tri-series in Bangladesh, before earning his Test cap in 2008 against Australia in Mohali, where he impressed with a five-wicket haul on debut. Among his career highlights was equalling Javagal Srinath’s world record in 2013 by claiming 18 wickets in a five-match ODI series against Zimbabwe. He also starred in the 2014 T20 World Cup, taking 10 wickets at an economy of 6.68 as India finished runners-up.
Although his last international appearance came in 2017, Mishra remained active in domestic cricket and the Indian Premier League (IPL). He is the tournament’s seventh-highest wicket-taker with 174 wickets in 162 games, boasting an economy rate of 7.37. He also holds the unique record of being the only bowler to take three IPL hat-tricks, achieved with Delhi Daredevils (2008), Kings XI Punjab (2011), and Sunrisers Hyderabad (2013).
Looking ahead, Mishra confirmed he plans to stay connected to cricket through coaching, commentary, mentoring young talents, and engaging with fans on social media and YouTube.