Decision made on Jackson Hastings’ reported Super League return

As Brodie Croft left for Leeds Rhinos, Salford Red Devils were linked with a sensational swoop for former Wigan Warriors and Salford star Jackson Hastings.

Hastings left Salford as an icon in 2019 having won the Man of Steel with the club and guided them to the Grand Final against St Helens.

He produced similar success in his stay at Wigan prior to returning to the NRL with Wests Tigers where he caught the eye but was still shown the door as the elected to put their faith behind Luke Brooks at seven instead.

Hastings joined Newcastle Knights where he has been superb but this hasn’t stopped links back to Salford via the Mole of Wide World of Sports.

However, he is now reporting that Salford have signed Cade Cust, the man who replaced Hastings at Wigan.

This would seem to indicate any interest in Hastings is over.

Cust’s departure from Wigan has been confirmed by the club. Cust joined the Warriors ahead of the 2022 campaign from Manly Warringah Sea Eagles. The half has gone on to play 40 games for the Cherry & Whites, scoring six tries.

Cust was influential in the Warriors 2022 Challenge Cup victory which saw him dislocate an elbow before going on to lift the trophy. The 25-year-old also added a League Leaders’ Shield to his tally in 2023.

Though not selected to play in the 2023 Betfred Super League Grand Final, Cust was a key part of the 2023 squad that were crowned Champions.

Speaking on Cust’s departure, Chief Executive Kris Radlinski said: “I would personally like to thank Custy for the way he has approached his stay with Wigan. Not everything has gone his way but he has shown outstanding personal attributes.

“He wholeheartedly committed to our Club. In the changing rooms after every game, you do not know if he has played or been left out, he has always been happy for the team first, putting personal disappointment to one side.”

Radlinski added: “The attitude he displayed when not getting selected for the First team but instead playing for the Reserve Team builds Clubs and he is an outstanding example to younger players.

“I am intensely confident that his teammates will vouch for his resilient character. He will always be welcomed with huge respect into our Club and he is the kind of bloke you would love to catch up with for a beer.”