Exclusive Interview: "There are no short cuts in life and sport" says Khurram Khan

Khurram Khan, the former UAE captain recently retired from international cricket and will now represent the Sagittarius Strikers in the Masters Champions League in UAE this year. Khurram joined Deep Mehta for a short chat before the MCL and here we bring to you the excerpts from the interview.

1. In 2004 during the Six Nations Challenge, you were the leading wicket-taker of the tournament for UAE, but the team couldn't qualify for the main round. How did you feel at that point of time? 

We were performing individually but as a team were not performing well, we had pockets of brilliance few occasions but again clicking as a unit was not there.

2. You had a lot of ups and downs in your career. What was your constant source of inspiration during the tough times? 

Love for the game. And a dream that one day I will play international cricket for UAE and help my team get better. I finally managed in the twilight of my career. 

3. After playing competitive cricket for almost 14 years, what was the highlight of your career as a player? 

Highlight of the career obviously qualifying and playing T20s and the ICC Cricket World Cup 15 in New Zealand and Australia. Receiving the Man of the Match award against Sri Lanka in Asia cup was special as well. 

Khurram was awarded the Associate Player of the year 2015 by ICC // Image: Getty Images

4. You captained your side in the 2014 World Cup Qualifiers. How was the experience there? 

It was great experience because that was the our first taste of major ICC event. Cricket does not get bigger than that, and leading your team is always a matter of pride. 

5. When did you start playing cricket seriously and decided to take it up as a profession? 

In university, I first got a chance to play with the proper cricket ball. I was the captain of the team next year and I started playing cricket at my elder brother's club- Tariq Cricket Club. I reached UAE in Jan 1996 and am here till date. Cricket was not and is still not professional sport here in UAE. 

6. You are the oldest centurion in ODIs with your 132 against Afghanistan in Dubai. How do you feel about the fact? (Do you think age matters while playing international cricket?) 

I think if you are fit and performing for the team and not being burden, it if fine. Younger players do take inspiration from you and you have to lead from the front. We in UAE were not blessed with many youngsters coming from grass root level so players like me had more chance of representing as there were not many players to replace us. 

7. ICC is reportedly going to reduce the number of nations playing the World Cup from 14 to just 10. What do you think about it? 

I think it will take the gas out of associate teams. I personally think till now this was the only motivation we had, it will change the the scenario completely. 

8. How is life after cricket? What are your future plans? 

I will stay involved in some shape, coaching, selection for UAE and managing. Obviously it will be hard to just sit at home. 

9. You played till the age of 43, and that too with enthusiasm. How did you maintain your fitness over the years? 

I had my motivations, always had a plan, stayed in touch with trainers and team physio and kept my fitness level high to stay in shape. 

10. What message you would like to give to youngsters? 

There are no short cuts in life, especially in sport, it is only hard work and hard work only.

(This post first appeared on TheCricketAnatomy)