Retired Amit Mishra reveals the most memorable moment of his international career

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Veteran Indian leg-spinner Amit Mishra has officially announced his retirement from all forms of cricket, drawing the curtains on a career spanning over two decades. Known for his guile, consistency, and longevity, Mishra enjoyed several high points, but he revealed that one moment stands above the rest.

Recalling his journey, Mishra said that stepping onto the field at Mohali remains the most cherished memory of his international career. The opportunity came unexpectedly after then-Indian captain Anil Kumble was ruled out due to injury.

“There are a lot of moments, but I would like to mention one special moment – my Test debut in Mohali. Anil bhai was injured and there was a lot of pressure on me because the media kept asking if I could fill his shoes. But Anil bhai himself encouraged me, told me to play my natural game, and that gave me confidence,” Mishra told IANS.

Mishra made an immediate impact, claiming seven wickets in the match, including a five-wicket haul in the first innings. His performance not only silenced critics but also marked the beginning of a memorable stint in Indian cricket.

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Mishra also reflected on his rare achievement of taking three hat-tricks in the Indian Premier League, calling each one of them ‘extremely special’ since such milestones don’t come often in a bowler’s career. Despite injuries limiting his appearances in the last two seasons, he expressed pride in still being among the top ten wicket-takers in IPL history. Mishra highlighted that his first hat-trick held the greatest significance, as it not only gave him personal satisfaction but also played a crucial role in earning him a return to the Indian national team.

“Taking a hat trick in the IPL is not an easy task, so all three of them are very special to me. That record is still there and I am still in the top ten wicket takers list in the IPL gives me a lot of happiness, despite not playing much in last two years due to my injuries. Hat tricks don’t happen often in a career, so all of them I took for three different IPL teams are extremely special to me. But I would definitely say that my first hat-trick in the IPL proved to be very advantageous as it opened my doors to be back in Indian team,” added Mishra.

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