The emerging middle-order batter scored a match-high unbeaten 54 as Numurkah escaped with a tense two-wicket win.
On a Vibert Reserve pitch that had a “few demons” in it, Smith’s classy half-century helped steer the Blues over the line in the 38th over and register their fourth win of the Cricket Shepparton Haisman Shield season.
Chasing a target of 124, Smith anchored the run chase during his 74-ball innings.
“Bailey has come a long way this season and it was so pleasing to see him bat the way he did in a really big game for the club,” Grandell said.
“We know how much talent he has and the way he toughed it out was impressive.
“He showed a lot of maturity.”
After a few days of stormy weather, Numurkah opted to send the Bloods in after winning the toss.
The decision became costly when opening quick Matthew Cline suffered a leg injury halfway through his spell.
Karramomus went from 2-7 to 2-60 as middle-order bats Luke Forge (27 runs) and Michael Mandaradoni (24) combined for 50 runs.
The Bloods were able to grind it out to 8-123 from 45 overs and post a handy score on a tough pitch.
Numurkah suffered an early loss with Grandell back in the sheds following “one that kept low”.
Jordan O’Dwyer, promoted to the top of the order, stuck it out for 60 deliveries with a brave 21.
But when the Blues lost 4-4 and were 6-61, the brunt of the run chase landed on Smith’s shoulders.
Sam Walton was the pick of the Karra bowlers and finished with tidy figures of 3-15.
“It was a really good battle. There was a bit in the deck and it was a good toss to win,” Grandell said.
“We sent them in, but Matty went down in his third over and couldn’t bowl again. But full credit to Karra because they worked hard and posted a decent score to defend on a tough pitch.
“Karra are a young team, but they are definitely going in the right direction.”
The Blues celebrated multiple milestones during the round 11 encounter.
Jahlan Lau notched up his 200th Haisman Shield appearance for the club, while youngster Riley Dawson was handed his first cap.
Grandell said it was pleasing to get over the line in a memorable day for the club.
“Jahlan brought up his 200th senior appearance for the club. He’s only the third bloke to ever reach that which is a terrific achievement,” he said.
“And it was also young Riley’s Haisman debut and he managed to pick up a wicket.”
THE GAME
Karramomus 8-123 (Luke Forge 27, Michael Mandaradoni 24, Mitch Grandell 3-25, Matthew Cline 1-1) lt Numurkah 8-125 (Bailey Smith 54 not out, Jordan O’Dwyer 21, Sam Walton 3-15, Zane Newbound 2-18)
STAR PLAYER
Bailey Smith (Numurkah): Back against the wall, Smith batted out of his skin to steer his side over the line. Numurkah skipper Dylan Grandell summed up Smith’s knock as a “mature innings“. He proved to be the difference in the end.
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