Could Lewis' performance secure his Ashes spot with England?

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 influential 24-year-old playmaker opened the scoring for the Robins during their historic Super League Grand Final victory against 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.

England Boss Faces Tough Choices

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.

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.

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

With five England caps and two international tries, Mikey Lewis brings experience

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.

“Grand Finals represent the ultimate stage and he completely dominated the opening period.

“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.

“Mikey Lewis is shouting from the rooftops 'pick me', or 'don't pick me if you dare',” Rowley commented.

“He's demonstrating his capability as an elite performer excelling in high-pressure situations.

“Mikey Lewis has got to be in there somewhere, but it's hard to squeeze all these good players in - there are only a few positions for quite a few players.”

Mikey Lewis with awards

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

Jonathan Wallace
Jonathan Wallace

A passionate food blogger and home cook with over a decade of experience in creating simple yet delicious recipes.