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NEW DELHI: Skipper Devdutt Padikkal believes the rich vein of form enjoyed by Karnataka’s top-order has given the side a timely lift ahead of their Ranji Trophy final against Jammu and Kashmir, which begins on Tuesday.

Besides Devdutt, seasoned batters such as KL Rahul, Karun Nair and R Smaran have been among the runs this season, powering Karnataka’s impressive march to the title clash.

“As a group, we're all ready and prepared for this opportunity and we have the experience and know-how to play big games. So, hopefully, our experience will come handy for us,” Devdutt said on the eve of the Ranji Trophy final on Monday.

“Apart from me, there are other international batters like KL Rahul, Mayank, Karun … all are experienced and they have been batting well,” he added.

Batting depth boosts Karnataka confidence

Karnataka underlined their batting might in the semifinal in Lucknow, piling up more than 1000 runs across two innings against Uttarakhand.

Devdutt felt such dominant performances significantly lift the entire squad, including the bowlers.

“Obviously, scoring over 1000 runs in a game is definitely a big confidence boost for everyone. Not just the batsmen, to be honest. Even the bowlers, knowing that the batting line-up is able to put on a show like that, it gives them a lot of confidence as well.

“It gives them that freedom to really enjoy themselves with the ball. It was a really good game for us in the second semifinal and it puts us in a good state to really take that momentum towards the final,” he said.

Jammu and Kashmir riding on belief

In contrast, Jammu and Kashmir may not boast a line-up filled with decorated names or a storied history, but they make up for it with grit and self-belief.

That spirit was on display in their victories over fancied opponents like Bengal, and captain Paras Dogra is hoping for another strong showing.

“We're always keeping things very simple. We're not playing a very complicated game. Before coming to Karnataka, we played in Kalyani (vs Bengal) and Indore (vs Madhya Pradesh). We have won there.

“It’s a confidence booster when we win against big teams at their home. We showed that we can do it, and we are enjoying each other’s company, and hopefully, we can give a good account of ourselves in the final,” said Dogra.

Calm heads ahead of maiden final

Asked if there were nerves ahead of their maiden Ranji Trophy final, Dogra insisted the dressing room remains relaxed and focused.

“No, everyone is enjoying it. They are relaxed. Obviously, it's a very big game. So, we're just trying to be very calm and composed. We'll stick to our basics, which have taken us this far. We have a good skill level and we have a good batting side as well," Dogra said.

“We'll stick to that and see how it goes. I only say to all those follow our cricket team, support J&K team, and I think we're going to show that we are good,” he added.

(With PTI Inputs)