Is Lewis demanding selection for England's Ashes squad?
Could Mikey Lewis become England's key player against Australia following his 2023 debut?
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.
England Boss Faces Tough Choices
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.
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.
Professional Assessment of Lewis' National Team Prospects
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.
“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.
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 demonstrating his capability as an elite performer excelling in high-pressure situations.
“Lewis absolutely warrants inclusion, though accommodating all talented players proves challenging with limited positions available.”
Following his Super League championship win and Rob Burrow Award recognition, Mikey Lewis exited Old Trafford triumphant