Leg-spinner Amit Mishra retires from all forms of cricket

Originally posted on Guerilla Cricket | By Aryan Surana | Last updated Sep 4, 2025 7:04 AM ET

Former Indian leg-spinner Amit Mishra has announced his retirement from all forms of cricket, concluding a professional career that spanned more than two decades.

Mishra, 42, last represented the country in 2017 but continue to be active in the domestic arena and the Indian Premier League, most recently turning out for Lucknow Super Giants in 2024.

Stop-start career in national colors

He finishes with 22 Tests, 36 ODIs and 10 T20Is to his name for India, bagging 156 international wickets. On his Test debut in 2008 in Mohali, Mishra trumpeted his arrival with a five-wicket haul against Australia, but he was rarely counted among India’s frontline spinners and did not get a consistent run in any of the formats.

In the IPL, Mishra developed a reputation as one of the most bankable spin options across franchises. His 174 wickets in 162 matches elevate him among the competition’s all-time top wicket-takers. He also holds the distinction of being the only bowler with three IPL hat-tricks, achieved with Delhi Daredevils (2008), Deccan Chargers (2011) and Sunrisers Hyderabad (2013).

Announcing his decision, Mishra cited injuries and a desire to allow room for the next generation. “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.

“This journey has been filled with countless emotions, moments of pride, hardship, learning, and love. 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.”

Overall, Mishra returned 535 wickets in 152 first-class matches, 252 wickets in 152 List A games, and 285 wickets in 259 T20s. He also managed to excel with the bat on the odd occasion, most notably a double-century in first-class cricket – an unbeaten 202 against Karnataka in the Ranji Trophy in December 2012.

”Whether it was my fitness, batting, or bowling, I always focused on getting better. Whenever I got a chance to play for the Indian team, I performed well, and I’m very happy about that. I never shied away from hard work.”

This article first appeared on Guerilla Cricket and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: