Jackson Hastings makes winning start with Wests Tigers on first appearance
Jackson Hastings made a winning start with new club Wests Tigers with a 16-8 victory over Sydney Roosters in a pre-season trial at Gosford Stadium.
The former Wigan and Salford half-back returned to the NRL during the off-season, signing a two-year deal.
During his Super League stint, he made two Grand Final appearances with Salford in 2019 and with Wigan in 2020.
He has represented Great Britain and also has one cap for Combined Nations All Stars, featuring against England in 2021.
An Australian Schoolboy representative, he made his NRL debut for Sydney Roosters in 2014 against South Sydney Rabbitohs. In 2015, Hastings played for the Junior Kangaroos against the Junior Kiwis.
He joined Manly Sea Eagles in 2017 before making the switch to Super League with Salford in 2018.
Hastings would go on to be a key figure in Wigan’s team during his two-year stint before returning to Australia.
The half-back featured in the club’s pre-season victory over the Roosters. Former Wigan centre Oliver Gildart also started.
It was Gildart’s second appearance for the club, having featured in their pre-season clash with Manly Sea Eagles.
Match Highlights – Roosters v Wests Tigers 🎥
Jackson Hastings looked strong in his first game for @WestsTigers as they defeated the Roosters 16-8 in Friday night's pre-season trial. pic.twitter.com/10YOEbuWVs
— NRL (@NRL) February 25, 2022
Watch: Kevin Naiqama scores first try for Sydney Roosters
Social media praise for Jackson Hastings
Hastings received praise across social media following his first appearance for his new club.
Journalist Brent Read tweeted: “Good signs from Jackson Hastings tonight. Promising start time to Wests Tigers.”
Fans were also impressed with his return.
Good signs from Jackson Hastings tonight. Promising start to time at @WestsTigers
— Brent Read (@brentread_7) February 25, 2022
Jackson Hastings making @WestsTigers tick in that friendly. Some decent touches by Gildart but a bit exposed in defence.
— Alex Tyrer Graham (@AlexG6) February 25, 2022
Jackson Hastings good return, two very big thumbs up. #NRLTrials #NRL #NRLRoostersTigers
— Paul Kneeshaw (@Stick_Beetle) February 25, 2022
It's great to see @JackoHastings tonight. He has added another dimension to the Tigers attack as he is a natural ball player at 6,7 or 13. @WestsTigers #NRLRoostersTigers
— Garry Jack (@jimmyjack244) February 25, 2022
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