🔗 Share this article

Any remaining uncertainty about Mikey Lewis' Ashes selection was definitively erased by his outstanding Hull KR performance this past weekend.

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

He may not have been named this season's Steve Prescott MBE Man of Steel, narrowly missing out on the honour he won in 2024 to Leeds' Jake Connor, but he won the Rob Burrow Award for man of the match in the Grand Final.

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.

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.

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.

Coaches Weigh In on Lewis' Credentials

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.

“My comment about Mikey Lewis arriving specifically addressed that pivotal occasion,” Peters clarified.

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

“Despite facing considerable criticism, this demonstrates the caliber of player we possess and his true character.

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 saying he can do it, he's a big player and he's doing it on the big stage.

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