Veteran Indian leg-spinner Amit Mishra has officially announced his retirement from all forms of cricket, bringing down the curtain on a glorious career that spanned more than 25 years. Known as the “Hat-Trick King” of the IPL, Mishra leaves behind a legacy of consistency, skill, and resilience.
Mishra, 42, made his international debut in 2003 in an ODI against South Africa and went on to play 22 Tests, 36 ODIs, and 10 T20Is for India. Though competition from Anil Kumble and Harbhajan Singh delayed his Test debut until 2008, he made an instant impact by taking a five-wicket haul against Australia in Mohali.
His last international appearance came in 2017, but Mishra remained active in domestic cricket and the IPL, playing his final competitive match for Lucknow Super Giants in the 2024 season.
Amit Mishra on Retirement:
“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. Cricket has given me everything, and now, I look forward to giving back to the game that made me who I am.”
Amit Mishra – Career Stats
| Format | Matches | Wickets | Best Bowling | Runs Scored | Highest Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tests | 22 | 76 | 5/71 | 648 | 84 |
| ODIs | 36 | 64 | 6/48 | 43 | 23* |
| T20Is | 10 | 16 | 3/24 | 2 | 1* |
| IPL | 162 | 174 | 5/17 | – | – |
Mishra is the only bowler to take three hat-tricks in IPL history.
Key Achievements
- Most Hat-Tricks in IPL History: Three hat-tricks across three different franchises – Delhi Daredevils (2008), Deccan Chargers (2011), and Sunrisers Hyderabad (2013).
- 7th Highest IPL Wicket-Taker: 174 wickets at an impressive average of 23.98 and economy rate of 7.36.
- Bilateral ODI Record: Took 18 wickets in a 5-match series against Zimbabwe in 2013, equaling Javagal Srinath’s world record.
- Champions Trophy Winner (2013): Part of India’s victorious squad under MS Dhoni.
- Test Debut Heroics: Picked up a five-wicket haul (5/71) on debut against Australia in 2008.
Contribution Beyond Numbers
Amit Mishra’s impact went beyond his numbers. He was a classical leg-spinner who brought flight, guile, and control at a time when attacking leg-spin was a rarity. His IPL hat-tricks remain some of the most iconic moments in tournament history.
Mishra on His IPL Record:
“Taking a hat-trick in the IPL is not an easy task, so all three of them are very special to me. My first hat-trick opened the doors for my comeback into the Indian team.”
Even after hanging up his boots, Mishra plans to remain connected to cricket. He expressed interest in taking up coaching and commentary, ensuring that his knowledge and experience will benefit the next generation of Indian cricketers.
Amit Mishra’s retirement marks the end of an era for Indian cricket. Fans will remember him not only as a wicket-taking leg-spinner but also as a fighter who kept making comebacks despite injuries and competition. His legacy will inspire countless young spinners in India and around the world.
