St Helens Secure a Big-Name Half for Their 2026 Campaign
St Helens have pulled off one of the headline signings of the 2026 Super League recruitment window, confirming that Jackson Hastings will join the club next season as the Red V continue their push to rebuild a title-contending spine.
The 29-year-old halfback is no stranger to Super League — far from it. Hastings first arrived in England with Salford Red Devils in 2018, sparking one of the most influential mid-season turnarounds in recent memory. Just one year later he was crowned 2019 Man of Steel, leading Salford to a stunning Grand Final appearance.
His success earned a move to Wigan Warriors in 2020, where he continued to showcase his game management, kicking game, and competitive edge before returning to the NRL with Wests Tigers in 2022 and later the Newcastle Knights.
However, Hastings’ most recent NRL stint has been turbulent. In 2025, he spent much of the season in the NSW Cup, unable to secure a permanent first-grade halves role as Newcastle continued to reshuffle their key playmaking positions. The Knights ended the NRL season as wooden spooners.
He is the second halves pairing to depart the Knights after Jack Cogger returned to the Penrith Panthers on a three year contract in October.
For Hastings, a fresh start awaits.
Why This Move Matters for St Helens
Hastings brings leadership, structure, and genuine big-game pedigree — exactly the type of organiser St Helens have been seeking as part of their long-term spine reshuffle. With over 150 professional games across both hemispheres, he adds high-level experience and a proven ability to elevate those around him.
His return also marks one of the most exciting narratives of the 2026 season:
Can Jackson Hastings rediscover his Man of Steel form with a powerhouse club built to challenge for titles?
