Is Lewis demanding selection for England's Ashes squad?

Mikey Lewis rugby action

Could Mikey Lewis become England's key player against Australia following his 2023 debut?

Any remaining uncertainty about Mikey Lewis' Ashes selection was definitively erased by his outstanding Hull KR performance this past weekend.

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.

Selection Dilemma for England Coach

While Leeds' Jake Connor claimed the Steve Prescott MBE Man of Steel honor this season, Lewis earned the prestigious Rob Burrow Award for his outstanding Grand Final performance.

It leaves England boss Shaun Wane - who is set to name his squad on Monday - with a selection headache for his first starting line-up to face Australia when they meet at Wembley in 14 days' time.

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 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.

“My comment about Mikey Lewis arriving specifically addressed that pivotal occasion,” Peters clarified.

“No platform exceeds a Grand Final and he commanded that initial half.

“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.

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

“He's saying he can do it, he's a big player and he's doing it on the big stage.

“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

Samantha Medina
Samantha Medina

A passionate writer and digital enthusiast with a knack for uncovering unique stories and trends.