Jackson Hastings close to making decision on Wigan future

Correspondent

Wigan playmaker Jackson Hastings says he is likely to make a decision on his future early next week.

The 2019 Man of Steel addressed the speculation after helping the Warriors overcome Huddersfield 19-6 in the last match of the regular Super League season at Headingley to claim the League Leaders’ Shield for the first time since 2012.

Wigan were being held 6-6 after an hour but Hastings grabbed hold of the game, forcing his way over for the try that broke the deadlock and three minutes later putting in a kick for Zak Hardaker to score the winner.

Hastings, who wrapped up the scoring with a drop goal, is in the first season of a two-year deal with the Warriors after moving from Salford but has an opt-out clause in his contract that would enable him to secure a return to the NRL this year.

Asked if he would be at the Super League club in 2021, Hastings told Sky Sports: “I’m not sure, honestly.

“I wanted to get this game out of the way, this game was really important to me.

“I probably would have put it aside again if we had lost because we would have had to play next week.

“I’ve got some deep thinking to do. I think I know what I want to do, I think I know what my heart is telling me to do.

“I’ll probably FaceTime my agent tonight, then FaceTime my mum, my step-dad, the rest of my family and get a gauge of what they think is best for me and my future. Hopefully by the start of next week I’ll come to a decision.”

Adrian Lam, who picked up his first trophy as Wigan coach, admits the Australian half-back has become a major player for the club.

“Jackson has been doing some great stuff for us,” Lam said. “He’s played a big part in where we are tonight.

“He’s had a really strong season. I personally think he’s played better than last year. ”