Amit Mishra, a beloved Indian cricketer, has retired from all cricket. At 42, the legspinner ended his 25-year career on September 4, 2025. He last played for India in 2017 but shone in the IPL and domestic cricket. His retirement marks the end of an era for spin bowling fans.
Mishra played 22 Tests, 36 ODIs, and 10 T20Is, taking 156 international wickets. In the IPL, he claimed 174 wickets in 162 matches, ranking among the top bowlers. His three IPL hat-tricks—a record—made him a T20 legend. He played for teams like Lucknow Super Giants and Delhi Daredevils.
Injuries and a wish to let young players shine led to his decision. Mishra thanked the BCCI, Haryana Cricket Association, and fans for their support. His journey inspires domestic players across India. Fans will miss his clever spin and team spirit.
This article explores Mishra’s career, his IPL success, and his legacy. We’ll compare him with bowlers like Yuzvendra Chahal and Ravichandran Ashwin. For more on Indian cricket, check out the India vs. Bangladesh timeline.
A Stellar Career Full of Spin Magic
Amit Mishra’s 25-year career is packed with highlights. He debuted for India in 2008, taking five wickets in a Test against Australia. His international wickets total 156 across 22 Tests, 36 ODIs, and 10 T20Is. His spin bowling troubled batsmen worldwide.
In the IPL, Mishra was a star for Delhi Daredevils, Deccan Chargers, and Sunrisers Hyderabad. His 174 wickets in 162 matches show his consistency. He played his last IPL season with Lucknow Super Giants in 2024. His clever variations made him a fan favourite.
Mishra’s retirement statement was heartfelt. He called cricket his “first love” and thanked fans. His journey from domestic cricket to international fame is inspiring. He paved the way for young spinners in India.
In 2008, Mishra debuted at Mohali against Australia. He took a five-wicket haul, stunning the Aussies. This performance showed his spin bowling talent. It set the tone for his careerlike Indian women’s dream of winning the first Women’s ODI World Cup.
Why Amit Mishra Ruled the IPL?
Amit Mishra’s IPL success is legendary. He took 174 wickets in 162 matches, ranking among the top IPL wicket-takers. His three IPL hat-tricks—with Delhi Daredevils (2008), Deccan Chargers (2011), and Sunrisers Hyderabad (2013)—are unmatched. His ability to outsmart batsmen was key.
Mishra’s success came from his clever legspin. He used googlies and sliders to confuse opponents. His experience helped him adapt to different pitches. Teams trusted him in big games.
He played for multiple IPL franchises, showing his versatility. His economy rate stayed low, even in T20’s high-scoring games. Mishra’s calm mindset made him a go-to bowler. His IPL career inspired many young spinners.
Mishra’s three IPL hat-tricks set him apart, which is a rare feat like a double hat-trick. No other bowler has matched this feat. His ability to take wickets in quick succession thrilled fans. It cemented his T20 cricket legacy.
Why Mishra Was a Team Player and Wicket-Taker
Amit Mishra was a true team player. He always put the team first, mentoring young bowlers. His spin bowling was perfect for pressure situations. He could turn games with quick wickets.
His wicket-taking ability came from his smarts. Mishra read batsmen well, using clever variations. He kept runs low while taking wickets regularly. His consistency made him a captain’s favorite.
In the IPL, he guided young spinners like Axar Patel. His calm nature helped teams stay focused. Mishra’s leadership off the field was as vital as his bowling. Fans loved his never-give-up attitude.
Mishra’s experience helped younger players grow. He shared tips on spin bowling and strategy. His advice shaped bowlers in domestic cricket. His legacy lives on in their success.
Amit Mishra vs. Yuzvendra Chahal: Spin Showdown
Comparing Amit Mishra and Yuzvendra Chahal is exciting. Both are legspinners and IPL wicket-takers. Mishra has 174 IPL wickets in 162 matches. Chahal, younger at 34, has over 200 wickets in 160 matches.
Mishra’s strength was his experience and variations. He used googlies to trick batsmen. Chahal relies on flight and sharp turn. Both excel in T20 cricket with tight bowling.
Chahal plays more internationals, with 96 T20Is for India. Mishra’s international career was shorter, with 10 T20Is. Yet, Mishra’s three IPL hat-tricks give him an edge. Both inspire domestic players to aim high.
Chahal’s higher wicket tally stands out. But Mishra’s hat-trick record is unique. Their styles differ, but both rule T20 cricket. Fans debate who’s the ultimate legspinner. For more on Indian spinners, see the New Zealand vs. India CT 2025 final.
Mishra Compared to Ashwin, Harbhajan, and Chawla
Amit Mishra stands tall among Indian spinners like Ravichandran Ashwin, Harbhajan Singh, and Piyush Chawla. Mishra’s 156 international wickets are fewer than Ashwin’s 765 or Harbhajan’s 417. But his IPL record shines brighter. His 174 wickets rival their totals.
Ashwin and Harbhajan played more Tests, with 516 and 265 wickets. Chawla, another legspinner, has 192 IPL wickets. Mishra’s three IPL hat-tricks set him apart from all. His consistency across IPL franchises was unmatched.
Each bowler brought unique skills. Ashwin’s carrom ball, Harbhajan’s doosra, and Chawla’s googly were deadly. Mishra’s clever spin bowling matched them in T20s. He proved legspinners can dominate franchise cricket.
Mishra’s Unique IPL Legacy
Mishra’s hat-tricks make him a T20 icon. His wickets came on tough IPL pitches. He outperformed many peers in T20 cricket. His legacy inspires domestic cricket spinners.
How Mishra Inspires Domestic Players?
Amit Mishra’s career motivates domestic players. He rose from the Haryana Cricket Association to international fame. His IPL success showed that hard work pays off. Young spinners look up to him.
Mishra’s journey wasn’t easy. Injuries and competition limited his India career. Yet, he shone in domestic cricket and the IPL. His story teaches perseverance to young players in domestic cricket.
His mentorship helped bowlers in IPL franchises. He shared tricks of spin bowling with teammates. Mishra’s retirement speech urged young players to chase dreams. His legacy drives domestic cricket forward.
Mishra’s success inspires small-town cricketers. His legspin skills were honed in domestic cricket. He showed that talent can shine anywhere. Young bowlers aim to follow his path.
Conclusion: A Spin Legend’s Last Bow
Amit Mishra’s retirement closes a remarkable chapter. His 25 years in cricket inspired millions. With 156 international wickets and 174 IPL wickets, he’s a spin bowling icon. His three IPL hat-tricks will echo in history.
Mishra’s journey from domestic cricket to T20 cricket stardom is inspiring. He mentored young players and led by example. His team player spirit made him a fan favorite. Indian cricket owes him a big thank you.
His legacy will live on in domestic players chasing their dreams. Mishra showed that legspinners can rule franchise cricket. His retirement opens doors for the next generation. Fans will cherish his clever googlies forever.
As we celebrate Mishra’s career, his story reminds us of cricket’s magic. Whether it’s IPL franchises or international games, he left his mark. Here’s to a legend who spun his way into our hearts!
