'He's shouting pick me' - has Lewis played way into England's Ashes team?
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 talismanic 24-year-old scored the Robins' first try as his side beat Wigan Warriors to win the Super League Grand Final for the first time.
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.
It leaves England boss Shaun Wane - who is set to name his squad on Monday - with a selection headache for his first starting line-up to face Australia when they meet at Wembley in 14 days' time.
Warrington's George Williams is England's captain, while Harry Smith - who himself scored on Saturday as Wigan threatened a second-half comeback - is also in contention alongside Lewis for a starting place.
Additionally, Connor has compelling claims for selection following a sophisticated season where he guided the Rhinos to their initial top-four placement since 2017.
Expert Opinions on Lewis' Selection Claims
Mikey Lewis has made five England appearances, scoring two tries
With the historic Ashes revival after twenty years approaching, Hull KR's Willie Peters (set to assist the Kangaroos) considers Lewis' championship performance a transformative career milestone.
“When I declared Mikey Lewis has arrived, I referred to that significant moment,” Peters explained.
“Grand Finals represent the ultimate stage and he completely dominated the opening period.
“Despite facing considerable criticism, this demonstrates the caliber of player we possess and his true character.
Salford Red Devils boss Paul Rowley thinks that despite a crowded line-up of players bidding to start, Lewis has convincingly made his case.
“Mikey Lewis is essentially demanding selection, challenging coaches to overlook him at their peril,” Rowley observed.
“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.”
Following his Super League championship win and Rob Burrow Award recognition, Mikey Lewis exited Old Trafford triumphant
