Amit Mishra's career with India was anything but straightforward. The leg-spinner finished with 76 wickets in 22 Tests.
He had to navigate the immense pressure of stepping in after Anil Kumble's retirement and then compete with the rise of Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja.
Add The Sporting News as a preferred news source
While Mishra's leg-breaks and googlies often impressed, he was rarely a first-choice option - finding himself in and out of the playing XI. Recently, Mishra reflected on the highs, lows and lessons from his two-decade-long career.
Amit Mishra opens up on frustration of limited chances
In an interview with PTI Videos, Mishra admitted that constantly being dropped and recalled was mentally draining. He said the lack of consistent opportunities left him disappointed but he always focused on improving his game and staying prepared.
"It was a very disappointing thing. Sometimes you're in the team, sometimes you're out. Of course, it's frustrating, and I was frustrated many times, no doubt," Mishra said.
Despite the challenges, he pointed out that representing India itself was an achievement. "You are one of the 15 players on the Indian team. So, I tried to stay positive."
Mishra credited the IPL for reviving his India career. He recalled his hat-trick in 2008 as a turning point.
That performance not only earned him recognition but also helped him secure a consistent run with the national side.
More: Who will win the Asia Cup 2025? Latest odds, favourites and betting for the ACC T20 tournament
Across his IPL journey, Mishra became one of the league's most reliable spinners. He picked up 174 wickets in 162 games.
He also fondly remembered his Test debut in Mohali in 2008 where he took five wickets against Australia after being told by Anil Kumble on the morning of the match that he would be playing.
Amit Mishra on captain's preferences and retirement
Reflecting on team dynamics, Mishra acknowledged that certain bowlers inevitably became captain's favourites but maintained that it was up to players to deliver whenever a chance came their way.
"Some players are captain's favourites. But that doesn't matter much. You just have to prove yourself whenever you get a chance," he said.
Mishra said he harbours no regrets. He expressed gratitude for a career that spanned 25 years across three generations of Indian cricket. He stressed that the respect and love he earned will remain his biggest achievement.
RELATED LINKS: