KHALID LATIF made his first-class debut at the tender age of 15, but was notices after his Youth Test debut in 2003. The right-hand opener was later appointed captain of Pakistan Under-19s for the series against Sri Lanka where he scored 77 in the first match. When he was given a task to lead the Pakistan U-19 team in 2004 World Cup and Khalid responded with a title win. Consistent performances with the bat followed and Latif, after scoring close to 600 runs in the 2007-08 Quaid-e-Azam Trophy, was included in the Patron's XI line-up to play the touring Zimbabweans. His dream to represent his country came true in 2008 when played his first One day international match against Zimbabwe in Faisalabad. Since then he has only featured in 5 ODIs, however he is hopeful to make a comeback and cement his place in the national side.

Early Days
In 2000, I joined Malir Cantonment Gymkhana where the in-charge Musarrat Raza helped me a lot. Later, I met with Rashid Latif who took me to the Malir Gymkhana and simultaneously, after trials, I got an opportunity to join the Rashid Latif Cricket Academy (RLCA) where in the presence of players like Muhammad Sami and Danish Kaneria I got the perfect environment to polish my skills.

Self Belief
My self belief has played a huge part in my career. I have been offering prayers since my childhood, and believe me or not even then I had a strong feeling that one day I would lead the U-19 team and would lift the World Cup (which later happened). Very few people encouraged me in my early days but, the self belief kept pushing me and I took the resistance as a challenge. Before the U-15 trials everyone just wrote me off, but I got what I asked the God for. Today, a lot of my friends even apologise to me on their past behaviours when they used to make fun of me.

Departmental Cricket
I wanted to play with the National Bank of Pakistan (NBP) and I did get a change too. Despite spending 4 years with the bank, I did not get proper chances, because Imran Nazir was the regular opener and performing well. I decided to move to Allied Bank Limited (ABL) where I was provided with ample opportunities hence my game improved. Later I joined Public Works Department (PWD) but prior to that I had already played for Pakistan.

Playing for Pakistan
I was playing for Karachi and when I was selected to represent Pakistan, I was determined to cement my place in the national side. At the time when Rashid bhai (Rashid Latif) constituting the team of Port Qasim Authority (PQA), I was in talks with Rashid Khan to join the team of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), however I decided to join the PQA as I was already playing for Karachi, which would keep me in the eyes of selectors. Actually, getting a permanent job was my priority. Here, I would like to mention the support extended by Rashid Khan who encouraged me a lot and offered me to join PIA anytime.

Turning Point
A lot of clubs in Karachi offered me but I turned every offer down until Rashid bhai called me for trials for the RLCA. I can easily call it the turning point in my career. Rashid bhai played a huge part in my career.

All Time Favourite Player
Since my early days I am a huge fan of Sachin Tendulkar. I tried to imitate his strokes by hitting a hanging ball at my backyard. He is as master; whenever I get a chance I watch his batting to learn.

When Will You Play for Pakistan Again ??
I know just one thing that whatever is in my destiny, will happen and I will accept it. I have never asked for a favour from anyone.

Q - It is said about you that you have not been able to handle the international match pressure, because your first class record is impressive?

I have not been utilised on my natural batting position. Out of the five ODIs I played, I was the victim of poor umpiring thrice. In one inning I went to the crease when 4 batsmen were dismissed cheaply and I steadied the inning with a 64-run knock. The point is that for a better performance, everyone should be provided with consistence opportunities. I went to Abu Dhabi with the team, as a replacement for Muhammad Yousuf, however did not get an opportunity.

Q – You were the captain in the Asian Games too – Pakistan lost to Afghanistan and a lot of things were said such as you threw the match, in that tournament you wicketkeeper also blamed you?

The Afghanis were playing with their full strength, we restricted them to 125 runs however, our batting did not click that day. I give full credit to the Afghan team, they performed splendidly well.

Q – You are out of the team since the Australian trip in Jan 2010, what are those mistakes in you that you were focused upon during this time?

Cricket has become very fast now and there is always room for improvement. I have been working hard to keep myself fit and playing at every level to get the much needed match fitness.

Q – You are suited for all three formats?

Yes, I feel that basic technique is a must, if a batman is technically sound he can adapt to any format.