'He's shouting pick me' - has Lewis played way into England's Ashes team?
Could Mikey Lewis become England's key player against Australia following his 2023 debut?
If there was any lingering doubt Mikey Lewis would be in contention to start for England in the first Test of the Ashes series against Australia in two weeks' time then his performance for Hull KR on Saturday surely put paid to that.
The influential 24-year-old playmaker opened the scoring for the Robins during their historic Super League Grand Final victory against Wigan Warriors.
Following an exceptional dummy move that led to his try, Hull KR gained momentum to achieve a remarkable domestic treble, entering the record books as just the fifth Grand Final champion in nearly three decades.
National Team Manager Confronts Selection Challenge
While Leeds' Jake Connor claimed the Steve Prescott MBE Man of Steel honor this season, Lewis earned the prestigious Rob Burrow Award for his outstanding Grand Final performance.
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
With five England caps and two international tries, Mikey Lewis brings experience
A first Ashes series for almost 20 years is a big occasion and Hull KR head coach Willie Peters - who will be part of the Kangaroos' backroom team for the series - believes Lewis' performance on the Grand Final stage was a pivotal moment in his career.
“I said out there that Mikey Lewis has arrived and what I meant was, that was a big moment,” Peters stated.
“No platform exceeds a Grand Final and he commanded that initial half.
“He withstands much scrutiny yet this reveals his authentic qualities and competitive nature.
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
