Is Lewis demanding selection for England's Ashes squad?
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
Expert Opinions on Lewis' Selection Claims
With five England caps and two international tries, Mikey Lewis brings experience
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.
“Grand Finals represent the ultimate stage and he completely dominated the opening period.
“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.
“Mikey Lewis is shouting from the rooftops 'pick me', or 'don't pick me if you dare',” Rowley commented.
“He's saying he can do it, he's a big player and he's doing it on the big stage.
“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 playmaker Mikey Lewis left Old Trafford after winning both the Super League Grand Final and the Rob Burrow Award for man of the match