On September 4, 2025, the cricketing world bid farewell to one of its most enduring and skillful spinners, Amit Mishra, as he announced his retirement from all forms of cricket. The 42-year-old Indian leg-spinner, celebrated for his guile, variations, and an unmatched record of three hat-tricks in the Indian Premier League (IPL), called time on a remarkable 25-year career that spanned international, domestic, and franchise cricket. Mishra’s journey, marked by resilience, craft, and moments of brilliance, leaves an indelible mark on the sport, particularly in the IPL, where he established himself as a legend. This article reflects on his extraordinary career, his contributions to Indian cricket, and the legacy of his record-breaking hat-tricks.
Early Days and Rise to Prominence
Born on November 24, 1982, in Delhi, Amit Mishra’s love for cricket began in the streets and local grounds of his hometown. His talent as a leg-spinner was evident early on, and he quickly rose through the ranks of Delhi’s domestic cricket circuit. Mishra debuted in first-class cricket for Haryana in the 2000-01 Ranji Trophy season, showcasing his ability to outfox batters with his deceptive googly and sharp turn. His performances in domestic cricket earned him a call-up to the Indian national team in 2003, marking the start of a long, albeit intermittent, international career.
Mishra’s international journey included 22 Tests, 36 One-Day Internationals (ODIs), and 10 Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is), where he claimed a total of 156 wickets. While his international career was often overshadowed by the presence of other spin greats like Anil Kumble, Harbhajan Singh, and later Ravichandran Ashwin, Mishra carved a niche with his versatility and control. His finest international moment came in 2013, when he equaled Javagal Srinath’s record by taking 18 wickets in a five-match ODI series against Zimbabwe. Additionally, his contributions in the 2014 T20 World Cup, where he helped India reach the final, showcased his ability to perform on the global stage.
The IPL Maestro
While Mishra’s international career was notable, it was in the IPL that he truly became a household name. Debuting in the inaugural IPL season in 2008 with the Delhi Daredevils (now Delhi Capitals), Mishra quickly established himself as one of the tournament’s premier spinners. Over 162 IPL matches, he claimed 174 wickets at an impressive economy rate of 7.37, making him the seventh-highest wicket-taker in IPL history. His ability to bowl in the powerplay, middle overs, and death overs with equal effectiveness made him a captain’s delight across multiple franchises, including Deccan Chargers, Sunrisers Hyderabad, and Punjab Kings.
What sets Mishra apart in the IPL is his unparalleled record of three hat-tricks, a feat unmatched by any other bowler in the tournament’s history. His first hat-trick came in 2008 for Delhi Daredevils against Deccan Chargers, dismissing Ravi Teja, Pragyan Ojha, and RP Singh in consecutive deliveries. In 2011, playing for Deccan Chargers against Kings XI Punjab, he claimed his second hat-trick by removing Ryan McLaren, Mandeep Singh, and Ryan Harris. His third and final IPL hat-trick came in 2013 for Sunrisers Hyderabad against Pune Warriors, where he dismissed Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Rahul Sharma, and Ashok Dinda. These hat-tricks, achieved across three different franchises, underscore Mishra’s adaptability and knack for delivering under pressure.
The Art of Leg-Spin and Mishra’s Craft
Mishra’s success as a leg-spinner stemmed from his mastery of variations and his ability to read batters’ intentions. Unlike many modern T20 spinners who rely on pace and flat trajectories, Mishra stuck to traditional leg-spin, using flight, loop, and subtle changes in pace to outwit opponents. His googly, in particular, was a weapon that bamboozled even the best batters. In the IPL, where big-hitting batters dominate, Mishra’s economy rate of 7.37 is a testament to his control and tactical acumen.
His hat-tricks were not just statistical milestones but moments that turned matches in favor of his team. Each hat-trick showcased his ability to exploit pressure situations, often bowling in high-stakes overs. For instance, his 2013 hat-trick against Pune Warriors came in a tight chase, where his three wickets in succession derailed the opposition’s momentum. Mishra’s ability to deliver in clutch moments made him a standout performer in the IPL’s high-pressure environment.
Challenges and Controversies
Mishra’s career was not without its challenges. Despite his domestic and IPL success, he struggled to cement a permanent spot in the Indian national team. The presence of established spinners and the team’s preference for all-rounders often limited his opportunities. Additionally, Mishra faced scrutiny for his fitness and occasional inconsistency in international cricket, which led to sporadic appearances for India.
In 2024, Mishra found himself embroiled in a controversy when he commented on Virat Kohli’s transformation with fame, contrasting it with Rohit Sharma’s consistency. The remarks sparked debates among fans and analysts, but Mishra remained focused on his game, letting his performances do the talking. His ability to bounce back from setbacks, whether on or off the field, highlighted his mental resilience and passion for cricket.
