FORMER Wigan Warriors and Salford Red Devils star Jackson Hastings has spoken for the first time on his controversial exit from Wests Tigers.
Just a few weeks ago, Hastings was preparing for a big season under new head coach Tim Sheens, but found himself in a swap deal with Newcastle Knights’ David Klemmer.
It was a surprising deal considering that the Knights had been chasing Wests halfback Luke Brooks for most of the past year.
Now Hastings, who became a firm fans’ favourite in his three-and-a-half year spell in Super League with Salford then Wigan, has broken his silence on his exit.
“I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t disappointed,” Hastings told the Sydney Morning Herald. “I wore my heart on my sleeve at every training session and every game.
“Whether I wasn’t wanted or wasn’t needed, it took me a few days to get over it because I was angry at the fact I wanted to be there and be a part of the solution, not the problem.
“There were a few days there I was angry and hated the world for a bit.”
Hastings was also keen to emphasise that he takes no issue with the Tigers for his exit from the club.
“But I’m a big boy, I’ve been in way worse situations than what has just gone on. I still love the club, and when I say I want them to do well, I genuinely mean it.
“I’ve got no hard feelings towards anyone at the Tigers. When I go back to Leichhardt in round two, hopefully I’m not booed because I really do love the club and enjoyed the year I had there.
“Hopefully both clubs go on to make the finals next year and we meet in a big game.”
