In a shocking turn of events, the highly anticipated swap deal that would have seen Newcastle Knights halfback Jackson Hastings join South Sydney Rabbitohs has fallen through. Reports from *The Daily Telegraph* indicate that talks between the two NRL clubs broke down, leaving Hastings’ future up in the air. The swap would have involved South Sydney’s Lachlan Ilias moving to Newcastle, a deal many believed would benefit both clubs.
Souths’ incoming head coach, Wayne Bennett, who previously worked with Hastings during Great Britain’s 2019 tour, was reportedly eager for a reunion. Hastings had been tipped as a key part of Bennett’s 2025 plans. However, recent developments suggest Bennett has reassured Ilias of his position in the team, thus halting the proposed trade.
For Hastings, this is the latest in a series of uncertainties. The halfback, who is heading into the final year of his contract at Newcastle, has struggled to secure his place under Knights coach Adam O’Brien. He spent the latter part of the 2024 season playing in the New South Wales Cup, leading to speculation that he might be on his way out.
Despite the rumors, Hastings recently addressed his future, denying any talks with Super League clubs and reaffirming his commitment to his current contract. “I’m really enjoying my life in Australia,” he told *Sky Sports* before Wigan’s playoff match. “Who knows, maybe one day I’ll be back [in Super League], but for now, my focus is here.”
With the deal now off the table and his standing at Newcastle in question, all eyes will be on Hastings to see how this saga unfolds as the 2025 season approaches. Will he find a new NRL home, or could a Super League return still be on the cards? Time will tell.