Could Lewis' performance secure his Ashes spot with England?
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Professional Assessment of Lewis' National Team Prospects
Having appeared five times for England and crossed twice, Lewis possesses international pedigree
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.
“It doesn't get bigger than a Grand Final and he owned that first half.
“He withstands much scrutiny yet this reveals his authentic qualities and competitive nature.
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.
“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.”
Hull KR's Mikey Lewis departed Old Trafford celebrating his Grand Final victory and Rob Burrow man-of-the-match honor
