Is Lewis demanding selection for England's Ashes squad?
After making his England debut in 2023, is Mikey Lewis now positioned to lead against Australia?
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.
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.
That try, which came off the back of a stunning dummy, put the wheels in motion for Hull KR to register a stunning domestic treble and to write their name in the history books as they became only the fifth team to win in a Grand Final since its inception almost 30 years ago.
England Boss Faces Tough Choices
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.
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.
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.
Connor also presents a strong case for inclusion after a polished campaign that returned the Rhinos to top-four contention for the first time in six years.
Expert Opinions on Lewis' Selection Claims
Having appeared five times for England and crossed twice, Lewis possesses international pedigree
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.
“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.
“He withstands much scrutiny yet this reveals his authentic qualities and competitive nature.
Salford Red Devils manager Paul Rowley believes Lewis has emphatically stated his selection argument amid intense competition.
“Lewis is virtually proclaiming 'select me' while daring anyone to exclude him,” Rowley noted.
“He's saying he can do it, he's a big player and he's doing it on the big stage.
“Lewis absolutely warrants inclusion, though accommodating all talented players proves challenging with limited positions available.”
Hull KR's Mikey Lewis departed Old Trafford celebrating his Grand Final victory and Rob Burrow man-of-the-match honor
