Is Lewis demanding selection for England's Ashes squad?
Mikey Lewis made his England debut in 2023 but could he be at the core of his national side against Australia?
Saturday's remarkable display for Hull KR has unquestionably solidified Mikey Lewis' position as a serious contender for England's Ashes lineup.
The influential 24-year-old playmaker opened the scoring for the Robins during their historic Super League Grand Final victory against Wigan Warriors.
His brilliant dummy-set try initiated Hull KR's path to an extraordinary domestic triple crown, establishing them historically among the elite five Grand Final winners over the past thirty years.
Selection Dilemma for England Coach
Although he fell just short of retaining the Steve Prescott MBE Man of Steel award, which went to Leeds' Jake Connor, he secured the Rob Burrow Award as Grand Final man of the match.
National team coach Shaun Wane encounters difficult decisions for his starting formation against Australia at Wembley, with squad selection imminent this coming Monday.
With George Williams of Warrington serving as England captain and Harry Smith also impressing during Wigan's second-half resurgence, Lewis faces stiff competition for starting positions.
Meanwhile, Connor will feel as if he has earned the right for a call-up himself off the back of a mature and impressive season in which he helped the Rhinos to their first top-four finish since 2017.
Expert Opinions on Lewis' Selection Claims
Mikey Lewis has made five England appearances, scoring two tries
The upcoming Ashes series, the first in nearly two decades, represents a monumental event, with Hull KR coach Willie Peters (joining Australia's coaching staff) viewing Lewis' Grand Final display as career-defining.
“When I declared Mikey Lewis has arrived, I referred to that significant moment,” Peters explained.
“No platform exceeds a Grand Final and he commanded that initial half.
“Despite facing considerable criticism, this demonstrates the caliber of player we possess and his true character.
According to Salford Red Devils' Paul Rowley, Lewis has powerfully presented his credentials despite numerous contenders.
“Lewis is virtually proclaiming 'select me' while daring anyone to exclude him,” Rowley noted.
“He's demonstrating his capability as an elite performer excelling in high-pressure situations.
“Selection must include Lewis somewhere, yet fitting numerous quality athletes into few spots presents difficulties.”
Hull KR playmaker Mikey Lewis left Old Trafford after winning both the Super League Grand Final and the Rob Burrow Award for man of the match
