Is Lewis demanding selection for England's Ashes squad?
Could Mikey Lewis become England's key player against Australia following his 2023 debut?
Saturday's remarkable display for Hull KR has unquestionably solidified Mikey Lewis' position as a serious contender for England's Ashes lineup.
In a championship-winning performance, the 24-year-old star crossed first for Hull KR as they secured their maiden Super League Grand Final triumph over 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.
England Boss Faces Tough Choices
He may not have been named this season's Steve Prescott MBE Man of Steel, narrowly missing out on the honour he won in 2024 to Leeds' Jake Connor, but he won the Rob Burrow Award for man of the match in the Grand Final.
England manager Shaun Wane, preparing to announce his squad Monday, now faces significant selection challenges for the inaugural Ashes Test at Wembley in two weeks.
England captain George Williams from Warrington remains a certainty, while Harry Smith's scoring performance during Wigan's comeback attempt places him alongside Lewis in the selection conversation.
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
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.
Salford Red Devils manager Paul Rowley believes Lewis has emphatically stated his selection argument amid intense competition.
“Mikey Lewis is shouting from the rooftops 'pick me', or 'don't pick me if you dare',” Rowley commented.
“He's saying he can do it, he's a big player and he's doing it on the big stage.
“Mikey Lewis has got to be in there somewhere, but it's hard to squeeze all these good players in - there are only a few positions for quite a few players.”
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