After missing England's opening defeat by Tonga, Mikey Lewis scored twice in a 21-minute cameo during the 82-0 win over France.
The Hull KR half-back, Super League's 2025 Man of Steel during the club's treble-winning season, will again start on the bench against Papua New Guinea in Wollongong on Friday.
England must win that match, then rely on Tonga beating Samoa on Sunday and a points swing of at least 68 in England's favour to reach the semi-finals.
Despite the difficult path, Lewis said the squad believes progression is possible.
"We're in with a fighting chance, we believe that. We feel it in these four walls."
After a difficult 2026 campaign, Lewis said he was comfortable with his role in a strong squad.
"I'm completely fine with it. It's part and parcel of being involved with a really good squad."
The 25-year-old said he was glad to represent England, regardless of where he played.
"I'll play anywhere as long as I represent my country, and I'll do that to the best of my ability."