Mikey Lewis aims to prove doubters wrong in Rugby League World Cup

Mikey Lewis acknowledged his selection for England's 2026 Rugby League World Cup squad was met with debate, but the 25-year-old insists he has earned his place. Lewis was chosen by coach Brian McDermott as one of three half-back options, a decision that raised eyebrows given his Super League season was marked by inconsistency and disciplinary issues.

His inclusion ahead of the 2025 Man of Steel winner Jake Connor, and his subsequent omission from England's opening defeat to Tonga, fueled the controversy. However, speaking from the team hotel in Wollongong, Lewis expressed his conviction that he merited his spot on the squad.

"The way my year went wouldn't be the best, I don't need anyone else to tell me," Lewis stated. "I just had to put myself in the shop window. I have earned my spot."

Lewis now has an opportunity to play a pivotal role in England's World Cup campaign. Following a significant 30-12 loss to Tonga, England secured a commanding 82-0 victory over France, with Lewis contributing two tries in the final 20 minutes of that match. To advance to the semi-finals, England must defeat Papua New Guinea and hope Tonga beats Samoa, while also overcoming a substantial points difference deficit.

Lewis, who is expected to again come off the bench against Papua New Guinea, aims to provide the attacking spark England needs. "I will always represent my country to the best of my ability," he said after his cameo against France. "I was told to run with the ball, and I wanted to play with a smile on my face."

While Lewis possesses the speed, skill, and power to be a key player, his temperament has been a subject of discussion. In the 2026 Super League season, he scored 17 tries and provided 14 assists in 20 matches, but also received four yellow cards, the highest in the league. Early in the season, a deliberate trip led to fan criticism, and a four-game ban in July for a late tackle and headbutt further fueled concerns.

Despite these incidents, McDermott maintained faith in Lewis, who has expressed remorse for his disciplinary problems. Lewis has acknowledged that his actions impacted his teammates and is seeking external support to manage his on-field temperament. His passion for representing England is evident, highlighted by his emotional post-match interview after being named man of the match in his debut against Tonga in October 2023, a game England won 22-18. Lewis scored a try and provided an assist in that victory.

"Last week the hard work was done, my job was to go and cause havoc - that was my instruction, and I did that," Lewis reflected on his performance against France. "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."