Nobody was more aware of how divisive the selection of Mikey Lewis for England's squad at the 2026 Rugby League World Cup was than the man himself. The 25-year-old was picked by coach Brian Mc Dermott as one of three half-back options alongside Harry Smith and captain George Williams, despite a Super League season marked by inconsistency and disciplinary issues. His selection ahead of 2025 Man Of Steel Jake Connor added fuel to the fire, and Lewis was then left out of the squad for England's opening defeat to Tonga.
Speaking from the England team hotel in Wollongong, Lewis said that despite his up and down season he never doubted he had earned his place. "I just had to put myself in the shop window. I have earned my spot," he said.
England's hopes are now on the line. The 30-12 loss to Tonga left England on the back foot, but a crushing 82-0 win over France kept them alive. Lewis came on for the final 20 minutes and scored two tries to boost England's points difference. To qualify, England must beat Papua New Guinea on Friday, hope Tonga defeat Samoa on Sunday, and overturn a 68-point deficit on the Samoans.
Lewis's temperament remains the question. In 2026 he scored 17 tries and provided 14 assists in 20 Super League matches, but he also received four yellow cards, the most of any player in the division. He was given a four-game ban for a late tackle and a headbutt against Warrington Wolves. Mc Dermott kept faith, and Lewis has admitted his teammates suffered for his discipline and is seeking external help to manage his on-field temperament.
Source: BBC Sport · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing