In 1990, New Zealand was my first destination outside the Indian sub-continent, travelling with the national side. I was looking forward to playing against Richard Hadlee, one of the finest-ever fast bowlers. I never expected any special treatment from the greats of international cricket and I was on the receiving end of the hostilities just like any other batsman from my team.


Ajinkya Rahane and Shikhar Dhawan (right) run between the wickets during India's first warm-up match against Australia at Adelaide Oval on Sunday. Pic/Getty Images 

So, in my first innings in New Zealand when Danny Morrison dismissed me for a golden duck, the Kiwis made sure they gave me an 'appropriate' send-off. Needless to say, I was utterly embarrassed!