JACKSON THRIVE
Hastings exit OK by Lam
JACKSON HASTINGS’ dream return to the NRL will not scupper Wigan’s glory bid.
That’s the vow from coach Adrian Lam after Hastings revealed he has signed a deal to join Wests Tigers from next year.
The half back is desperate to make a hero’s return to Australia after being drummed out three years ago.
But Lam is convinced that will not come at any cost to Wigan this season, saying: “I think he’ll probably show his best rugby now which is good for us.
“He is the ultimate competitor and I can guarantee he will not leave anything on the field week in week out. I am sure his best is yet to come.”
Hastings, 25, was a teenage prodigy in Australia but his career went off the rails after an ugly bust-up with teammates and coach Trent Barrett at Manly.
Salford Red Devils snapped him up after Manly released him but Hastings has always longed to return home.
He has since admitted that some of his outspoken behaviour in the NRL was unacceptable but Lam said he’s now more in control of his emotions. The Wigan coach said: “He has worked really hard to be a better person and the club have supported him through that.
“He is going back to prove to people that he has changed.
“I was a little bit sad when he told me he was leaving but I am really happy for him if that is what he wants.
“He has earned the chance to go back and prove himself there. He wants a second chance.
“He has been amazing with us and he goes back as a better person, the ultimate competitor.
“There is nobody better. I wish him all the best.”
Wigan executive director Kris Radlinski insists there is no chance that Hastings or Wests Tigers will try to bring the two-year deal forward.
He said: “I could see it in his eyes that he wants to leave Wigan a winner.”
Hastings said: “I am an extremely driven individual that’s super committed to bringing success to Wigan in 2021.”