Inside ex-Wigan Warriors star Jackson Hastings’ role in sensational swap deal

It has been confirmed that former Salford Red Devils and Wigan Warriors halfback Jackson Hastings has left Wests Tigers.

He joins the Newcastle Knights in a swap deal which saw David Klemmer the other way.

A swap deal is always complicated but Newcastle Knights’ Director of Rugby Peter Parr has sped light on how this deal came about on the club website: “We’re delighted with that, it is always difficult to have a good season when you don’t have depth in your halves. He’s a really good player.

“It was an easy weekend, there were so many moving parts. The Tigers were looking to bolster their middles and David Klemmer suited what they were looking for and we wanted a halfback to bolster our squad.

“Speaking to the agents and the Tigers, we felt it would be mutually beneficial for both clubs and both players.

“We were keen to do our own due diligence on his fitness but also what he thought of Newcastle.

“I met with him last week. Adam and Joey were very keen on Hastings coming here.”

When asked what he will bring to the club, he said: “He’s good at game management and can implement the game plan. He’s a good defender so he’s tough.

“He came up with some big clutch plays last year when the games were on the line.

“There’s no guarantees he will need to put his best foot forward. We see him as a guy who can add value to the club.”