Adrian Lam reacts to Jackson Hastings-Wests Tigers deal

Hastings today signed a two-year deal with Michael Maguire’s Wests Tigers, to start next season.

There has been frequent speculation about Hastings throughout his time at Wigan and Lam is pleased the focus will now be on what he wants to achieve at the Warriors before he returns to the NRL.

“I’m pleased for Jackson, I’m glad it’s sorted out so we can move forward and he can move forward,” said Lam.

“There’s sadness there because he’s been great for us and for Super League, but he’s always wanted to go back to the NRL.

“He’s given his all to this club, and we’ve still got this year with him. I’m glad it’s out the way, we can all move forward. He is the ultimate competitor, I’ve no doubts we’ll probably see his best rugby now in the next month or two.”

Hastings, 25, joined the club from Salford before last season and signed a new one-year deal after a strong debut campaign with the club.

Lam, meanwhile, confirmed Bevan French will play in Thursday’s home match against Castleford – but didn’t reveal the position.

Winger Dom Manfredi, who has also yet to play this year due to a thumb injury, seems unlikely to return after taking a “whack on his hand” in training, centre Oliver Gildart (groin) and winger Liam Marshall (knee) are still out and Thomas Leuluai was having a minor sternum injury checked.

The Tigers will be without forward Jesse Sene-Lefao on Thursday after he received a one match ban for dangerous contact.