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.
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.
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.
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.
âWhen I declared Mikey Lewis has arrived, I referred to that significant moment,â Peters explained.
âGrand Finals represent the ultimate stage and he completely dominated the opening period.
âHe 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.
âLewis is virtually proclaiming 'select me' while daring anyone to exclude him,â Rowley noted.
âHe's saying he can do it, he's a big player and he's doing it on the big stage.
âLewis absolutely warrants inclusion, though accommodating all talented players proves challenging with limited positions available.â
Hull KR's Mikey Lewis departed Old Trafford celebrating his Grand Final victory and Rob Burrow man-of-the-match honor
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Lauren Wilson
Lauren Wilson
Lauren Wilson