“Misjudgments and…”: India Star breaks silence on team losing 3 wickets in last 2 overs vs NZ

Experienced all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja reflected on India’s “unexpected” collapse during the final session on 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, fortune favored the visitors, who grabbed the chance quickly. As India looked set for a strong finish, they lost three wickets in the final two overs of the day, dramatically changing the momentum of the game.

Ajaz Patel delivered a double-wicket maiden, dismissing Yashasvi Jaiswal (30) and night watchman Mohammed Siraj (0) on consecutive balls.

India’s problems deepened in the last over when Virat Kohli (4) was run out after a quick throw from Matt Henry, unable to cross the crease in time.

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

“It was unexpected; miscommunications and misjudgments happen. We are 150 runs behind. Small partnerships to take the team’s total past 230 will be our game plan,” Jadeja said after today’s game.

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

As a puff of dust rose with every delivery, New Zealand’s batsmen struggled, leading to another five-wicket haul for Jadeja and a four-wicket spell for Sundar, who bowled 18.4 overs in the Mumbai heat.

“I felt good about helping my team make the breakthrough. It was not easy to bowl in the heat; Washington bowled well and everyone played their parts,” Jadeja added.

India will begin Day 2 with Shubman Gill and Rishabh Pant at the crease as the hosts look to close the 149-run deficit.