Is Lewis demanding selection for England's Ashes squad?

Could Mikey Lewis become England's key player against Australia following his 2023 debut?

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

The talismanic 24-year-old scored the Robins' first try as his side beat Wigan Warriors to win the Super League Grand Final for the first time.

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.

Selection Dilemma for England Coach

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.

Coaches Weigh In on Lewis' Credentials

Having appeared five times for England and crossed twice, Lewis possesses international pedigree

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.

“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 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.”

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