'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.

His brilliant dummy-set try initiated Hull KR's path to an extraordinary domestic triple crown, establishing them historically among the elite five Grand Final winners over the past thirty years.

National Team Manager Confronts Selection Challenge

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.

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

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.

Expert Opinions on Lewis' Selection Claims

Mikey Lewis in action

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.

“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.

“Despite facing considerable criticism, this demonstrates the caliber of player we possess and his true character.

According to Salford Red Devils' Paul Rowley, Lewis has powerfully presented his credentials despite numerous contenders.

“Lewis is virtually proclaiming 'select me' while daring anyone to exclude him,” Rowley noted.

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

“Selection must include Lewis somewhere, yet fitting numerous quality athletes into few spots presents difficulties.”

Mikey Lewis with awards

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

Angela Bailey
Angela Bailey

A seasoned tech writer and digital strategist with over a decade of experience in helping businesses innovate and grow online.