Jackson Hastings’ position explained as Oliver Gildart’s ‘biggest challenge’ revealed

Jackson Hastings and Oliver Gildart made the off-season move from Wigan Warriors to Wests Tigers – and they have both reportedly made a huge impact.

In an interview with the Daily Telegraph, Wests head coach Michael Maguire – who himself was in charge of Wigan at the turn of the 2010s – hailed the duo and made it clear that Hastings is in line to commandeer the halfback position.

“Jackson Hastings, Tyrone Peachey and Oliver Gildart are the more notable players we have recruited,” Maguire said.

“They have all come in and added to the group with their experience and also their personalities. They have brought a fresh energy to the club and that is certainly a positive.

“The bonds between the new players and the existing players have really grown over the pre-season.”

Maguire was also asked where Hastings will fit in in the team with an abundance of playmakers in the Tigers’ squad.

“We have had Jackson working with the halves. In the spine we have Jackson, Luke Brooks, Tyrone Peachey and Jock Madden working hard with Dane (Laurie) so he can get a good understanding of playing with them all.

“We also have Jake Liddle and Jake Simpkin in and around No.9. Jackson can cover a lot of positions but he has spent a lot of time in the halves.”

Gildart has also earned the praises of Maguire after making the off-season move from Wigan where he spent the entirety of his Super League career.

“Ollie is very skilful. He is also very fast. Adapting to the speed of the game may be his biggest challenge. It will just take a little bit of time for him to get an understanding of how the NRL is played.

“The big difference is adjusting to the speed of the game week in and week out. He has played the game at the highest level and has a wealth of experience, so I am expecting him to adjust well.

“He is also a great personality to have around the place. I am looking forward to seeing him develop and evolve. He has already built up some great combinations with others in the group.”