Mikey Lewis insists he has earned his place in England's Rugby League World Cup squad despite limited game time. The 2024 Man of Steel winner with Hull KR struggled for form during the 2026 Super League season but was included in Brian McDermott's squad. After being left out of the opening match against Tonga and initially overlooked for the clash with France, Lewis came off the bench for the final 20 minutes, scoring two tries in a crushing 82-0 victory.
For Friday's must-win contest against Papua New Guinea in Wollongong, Lewis has been named on the bench. "The way my year went wasn't really the best, I don't need anyone else to tell me," Lewis said. "I just had to put myself in the shop window. I have earned my spot. I'll always represent my country to the best of my ability." Head coach McDermott praised Lewis's humility in camp, noting his frustrating end to the season.
England face a potential first-ever group-stage exit after their heavy defeat to Tonga. Despite thrashing France, their semi-final hopes remain out of their hands due to the tournament's unusual format, which merges Groups B and C into a six-team table with only the top two advancing. England have two points heading into the final pool clash and need a convincing victory alongside favourable results elsewhere.
Source: Sky Sports Champions League · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing