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

Mikey Lewis rugby action

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.

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.

National Team Manager Confronts Selection Challenge

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.

National team coach Shaun Wane encounters difficult decisions for his starting formation against Australia at Wembley, with squad selection imminent this coming Monday.

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.

Coaches Weigh In on Lewis' Credentials

Mikey Lewis in action

Mikey Lewis has made five England appearances, scoring two tries

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.

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

“He cops a lot but it just shows the type of player we've got, who he is and what he's about.

Salford Red Devils manager Paul Rowley believes Lewis has emphatically stated his selection argument amid intense competition.

“Mikey Lewis is essentially demanding selection, challenging coaches to overlook him at their peril,” Rowley observed.

“His actions confirm he belongs among top-tier athletes who deliver when it matters most.

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

Mikey Lewis with awards

Hull KR's Mikey Lewis departed Old Trafford celebrating his Grand Final victory and Rob Burrow man-of-the-match honor

Taylor Chandler
Taylor Chandler

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