By Salma El-Sakka
England's Rugby League World Cup hopes rest partly on the shoulders of Mikey Lewis, the Hull KR half-back whose selection sparked debate due to a season marked by inconsistency and disciplinary problems. The 25-year-old was named in coach Brian McDermott's squad as one of three half-back options alongside Harry Smith and captain George Williams, despite receiving four yellow cards and a four-match ban for a late tackle and headbutt during the Super League campaign.
Controversial Selection
Lewis's inclusion ahead of 2025 Man of Steel Jake Connor drew criticism, which intensified when he was omitted from the side that suffered a 30-12 opening defeat to Tonga. Speaking from the team hotel in Wollongong, Lewis acknowledged his difficult year but insisted he had earned his place. "The way my year went wouldn't be the best, I don't need anyone else to tell me," he said. "I just had to put myself in the shop window. I have earned my spot."
Redemption Against France
England revived their campaign with an 82-0 thrashing of France, and Lewis, introduced from the bench for the final 20 minutes, scored two tries to boost the team's points difference. The result keeps England's semi-final hopes alive, but they face a daunting mathematical challenge.
Qualification Scenario
To reach the last four, England must defeat Papua New Guinea on Friday, hope Tonga beat Samoa on Sunday, and overturn a 68-point deficit on the Samoans. Piling up tries is now essential, and Lewis, likely to feature off the bench again, aims to provide the required attacking flair. "We have a fighting chance, we believe in that," he said. "So we just have to put the hard work in."
Disciplinary History
Lewis's talent is undisputed — he scored 17 tries and added 14 assists in 20 Super League matches this year — but his temperament has been the concern. His season began with a deliberate trip in a loss to newly promoted York Knights, and the July headbutt incident against Warrington Wolves led to a four-game suspension. Lewis has since admitted his teammates suffered from his indiscipline and is seeking external help to manage his on-field emotions.
Pride and Determination
That contrition stems from a deep pride in representing his country, evident after his man-of-the-match debut against Tonga at St Helens in October 2023. "Last week the hard work was done, my job was to go and cause havoc — that was my instruction, and I did that," Lewis said of his cameo in Perth. "I might get different instructions this week, but I'll do it, because I am proud to play for my country — 20 minutes is 20 minutes for England, I don't really care it's only 20 minutes."
