Jackson Hastings looks set to stay at Wigan for the 2021 season.
There has been much uncertainty over the future of the reigning Man of Steel who has ambitions of returning to the NRL in the future.
Hastings was included on the RFL’s off-contract list earlier this week despite signing a two-year deal at the Warriors ahead of this season.
Reports in Australia suggest a number of clubs are interested in giving the 24-year-old playmaker another crack at the NRL, with fellow Super League side Hull FC also a surprise suitor.
However, Hastings’ manager Sam Ayoub revealed to the Australian Daily Telegraph that the former Rooster is loving life at Wigan and will likely stay at the DW Stadium for another 12 months.
“Jacko is really enjoying his footy and time over there and it’s showing in the footy he is delivering,” Ayoub told The Daily Telegraph.
“You don’t win the Man of Steel by such a large margin last year if you’re not ‘braining it’.
“And no doubt he will be right up there again this year. His stats are off the charts.
“I think, at this stage, he is keen to have another year over there and that’s what I have said to clubs who have come to us. We will play it by ear – there is certainly no rush.”
Hastings signed for Wigan after a superb 18 months at Salford, leading the Red Devils to the Super League Grand Final against all the odds.
He has shown excellent consistency at the Warriors, taking his skillset and game management to the next level.
It’s a far cry from the player who was released by Many Sea Eagles for off-the-field issues midway through 2018.
Having now matured and approaching his mid 20s, there is a belief Hastings must return to the NRL at the earliest possible opportunity.
But Ayoub doesn’t see it that way and says his client won’t rush into any big decisions at this stage.
“There is still a lot of potential activity to happen here. He is weighing things up,” Ayoub added.
“I’ve got all the time in the world for ‘Jacko’. I just want what is best for him.
“I think he may stay for at least another year. People forget he only turned 24 this year.”
