Veteran all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja reflected on India’s “unexpected” collapse during the final session of the opening day of the third Test against New Zealand at the Wankhede Stadium. In the last few overs, just when India seemed to be in control, luck was on the visitors’ side, who quickly seized the opportunity. With India looking set for a strong finish, they lost three wickets in the last two overs of the day, dramatically changing the momentum of the game.

Ajaz Patel delivered his first double-wicket, dismissing Yashasvi Jaiswal (30) and nightwatchman Mohammed Siraj (0) on successive balls.

India’s problems worsened in the final over when Virat Kohli (4) went out after a quick throw from Matt Henry and was unable to cross the crease in time.

With India reduced to 86/4 and still trailing by 149 runs, Jadeja stressed the need for a concerted effort to reach the target of 230.

“It was unexpected; Misunderstandings and misjudgments occur. We are 150 runs behind. Small partnerships to take the team’s total above 230 will be our game plan,” Jadeja said after the day’s match.

After Akash Deep made the early breakthrough, the spinners took charge with Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar reaping most of the rewards on the pitch.

With a cloud of dust rising with every toss, the New Zealand batsmen struggled, resulting in another five-wicket win for Jadeja and a four-wicket spell for Sundar, who bowled 18.4 overs in the Mumbai heat.

“It was good for me to help my team achieve breakthroughs. It wasn’t easy bowling in the heat; Washington bowled well and everyone played their role,” Jadeja added.

India will start the second day with Shubman Gill and Rishabh Pant at the crease as the hosts look to close the 149-run deficit.