Amit Mishra Announces Retirement from Cricket

Seasoned Indian leg-spinner Amit Mishra has declared his departure from all formats of cricket. His final professional game was with Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) during IPL 2024.

The 42-year-old, who donned the Indian colors from 2003 to 2017, participated in 22 Test matches, 36 ODIs, and 10 T20Is.

Throughout his IPL journey, Mishra was a part of four franchises: Delhi Daredevils (now Capitals), Deccan Chargers, Sunrisers Hyderabad, and LSG. He played in every tournament edition from 2008 to 2024, except for IPL 2022.

With 174 wickets in 162 matches, he holds the eighth position in the overall IPL standings. Mishra also boasts the distinction of achieving the most hat-tricks in IPL history, accomplishing this feat three times in 2008, 2011, and 2013.

Mishra stated, “After 25 years, I am announcing my retirement from cricket – a sport that has been my greatest love, my mentor, and my primary source of happiness.”

“This path has evoked a wide array of emotions, including pride, challenges, education, and affection. I extend my sincere gratitude to the BCCI, Haryana Cricket Association, my trainers, support personnel, teammates, and especially the fans. Their unwavering support fueled me at every turn.”

Mishra reflected on his extensive two-decade career, acknowledging the highs, lows, and the support network that aided him.

“Every chapter, from early struggles and sacrifices to unforgettable moments on the field, has molded me both as a cricketer and as an individual.”

He expressed gratitude towards those who supported him throughout his cricketing career, recognizing individuals who influenced both his career and personal development.

“To my family, thank you for your unwavering support during both triumphs and setbacks. To my teammates and coaches, thank you for making this journey unforgettable. As I conclude this chapter, my heart overflows with gratitude and affection. Cricket has enriched my life, and I eagerly anticipate contributing back to the sport that defined me.”

Mishra’s domestic career started with Haryana, debuting in first-class cricket in 2000-01. He made his international debut in a 2003 ODI against South Africa in Dhaka.

With Harbhajan Singh and Anil Kumble as leading Test spinners for India, Mishra had to wait until October 2008 for his Test debut against Australia in Mohali, stepping in for an injured Kumble.

Despite achieving a five-wicket haul in his debut, inconsistency hindered him from securing a consistent spot in any format.

Nonetheless, he remained a significant player in domestic cricket and the IPL, earning opportunities to represent India, notably in the 2013 Champions Trophy and the 2014 T20 World Cup.

Throughout his career, Mishra participated in 152 first-class matches, securing 535 wickets, alongside 152 one-dayers with 252 wickets, and 259 T20s with 285 wickets.

He also recorded an impressive double century, scoring an undefeated 202 against Karnataka in the Ranji Trophy in December 2012.