Jackson Hastings explains why he needs NRL stay amid family commitments

Free agent Jackson Hastings is keen to remain in the NRL rather than make the move back over to Super League in the off-season, with family commitments rightly coming first.

Hastings, who became a father for the first time earlier this year, lost his mum to a heart attack in July and since then, the 29-year-old has taken on a bigger role in taking care of and supporting his two younger sisters.

That’s why he is looking to remain down under following his release by Newcastle Knights at the end of the 2025 campaign. The half-back spent three years with the Knights but made just five NRL appearances last season after struggling to force his way into Adam O’Brien’s plans and subsequently, he was let go without the offer of a new deal at the end of the season.

He has been regularly linked with a move back to Super League, where he spent three and a half years earlier in his career, spending time at both Wigan Warriors and Salford Red Devils, while also winning the Super League Man of Steel award.

But while a return to England might be on the cards down the line, the time isn’t right at present.

“I’d love to stay in the NRL,” Hastings said in an open and candid interview with the Daily Telegraph.

“Obviously what happened with Mum, and being close to my sisters and support network, it would be great for me, personally.”

He added: “Whatever comes about, I know they’re getting a good rugby league player and a good person, regardless of what people want to try and say or portray.

“I’ve played my best footy over the last couple of years and I still reckon the peak of my powers is ahead of me.

“I just need a consistent run of being trusted and being given a role that obviously suits myself in the team.

“But position-wise, it doesn’t matter, either halfback or lock.”

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