'He's shouting pick me' - has Lewis played way into England's Ashes team?

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.

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.

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.

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.

Coaches Weigh In on Lewis' Credentials

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.

“It doesn't get bigger than a Grand Final and he owned that first half.

“He cops a lot but it just shows the type of player we've got, who he is and what he's about.

Salford Red Devils boss Paul Rowley thinks that despite a crowded line-up of players bidding to start, Lewis has convincingly made his case.

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

“His actions confirm he belongs among top-tier athletes who deliver when it matters most.

“Selection must include Lewis somewhere, yet fitting numerous quality athletes into few spots presents difficulties.”

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