'He's shouting pick me' - has Lewis played way into England's Ashes team?

Mikey Lewis rugby action

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.

Selection Dilemma for England Coach

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.

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.

Professional Assessment of Lewis' National Team Prospects

Mikey Lewis in action

Having appeared five times for England and crossed twice, Lewis possesses international pedigree

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.

“It doesn't get bigger than a Grand Final and he owned that first half.

“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.

“Lewis absolutely warrants inclusion, though accommodating all talented players proves challenging with limited positions available.”

Mikey Lewis with awards

Following his Super League championship win and Rob Burrow Award recognition, Mikey Lewis exited Old Trafford triumphant

John Carey
John Carey

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