Jackson Hastings to join Wests Tigers at end of season
Hastings won the Steve Prescott Man of Steel award in 2019
Wests Tigers have confirmed the signing of Jackson Hastings from Wigan on a two-year deal from 2022.
The 25-year-old joined the Warriors ahead of the 2020 campaign from Salford and helped the club win the League Leaders’ Shield in 2020.
Hastings won the Steve Prescott Man of Steel award in 2019 and was named in the Super League Dream Team in the same season. He has also won four caps for Great Britain.
Wigan executive director Kris Radlinski said: “Jackson asked to see me on Sunday morning where he informed me that he has agreed a two-year deal in the NRL and will leave at the end of 2021 when his contract expires.
“There has been much speculation about an immediate exit, but I have had written assurances from his management team and through my relationship with Michael Maguire, 2021 was never an option.
“During my conversation, Jackson was incredibly humble and said he feels honoured to have represented the club. I could see it in his eyes that he wants to leave Wigan a winner.
“We have never doubted his commitment as a rugby league player. He brings an outstanding attitude to training every day and plays his heart out every week on the playing field.
“Wests Tigers are getting a player who is deeply motivated to succeed and will drive the rest of the playing squad.”
Hastings said: “I am extremely grateful to Ian Lenagan and Kris Radlinski and Adrian Lam to represent this great club.
“Over the last 15 months I’ve really appreciated being part of such a historic place and the expectations that come along with that.
“Kris and I have spoken at length about what the future holds. Having such a great relationship with him, the door is open if an opportunity arises in the future.
“I’m really grateful to all the fans for putting up with the rumours and speculation. I have given everything I have to the jersey and I will continue to do that for the rest of this year. I am an extremely driven individual that’s super committed to bringing success to Wigan in 2021.
“Now this is out of the way, I just want to get on with playing rugby league. I am solely focused on 2021 and the goal we have as a club for this year.
“Once again, I would like to say thank you to the Wigan fans for the constant support and I can’t wait to see them all back in the stands.”
Tigers coach Michael Maguire said: “I’m really looking forward to welcoming Jackson to our squad in 2022.
“Jackson’s shown himself to be an extremely competitive player and someone who wants to prove himself in the NRL. We’re looking forward to him adding to our club and squad in the 2022 season and beyond.”