The Feud That Triggered $800K Halfback Jackson Hastings’ Axing by Newcastle Knights

The Newcastle Knights have made headlines with the controversial demotion of their $800,000-a-year halfback, Jackson Hastings, to reserve grade. The move has sparked widespread speculation, particularly concerning an alleged personal feud involving Hastings’ partner, Amelia Smith. Reports suggest that a disagreement between Smith and the wife of a senior Knights player escalated, leading to tensions within the team. The unnamed senior player reportedly approached club executives about the issue, resulting in the club siding with him over Hastings. This decision comes amid the Knights’ challenging start to the season, holding a 3-5 record and sitting 12th on the NRL ladder.

Head coach Adam O’Brien has defended the decision to keep Hastings in reserve grade, emphasizing that the team’s issues are multifaceted and not solely attributable to one player. O’Brien stated, “The problems that I highlighted… I think it would be unfair on Jackson to think that he’s the one that can come in and fix all of those things.” He also confirmed that Hastings would not be offered a new contract for the 2026 season, signaling a clear shift in the club’s future plans.

Despite his relegation, Hastings has continued to demonstrate his commitment and skill on the field. In a recent NSW Cup match, he played a pivotal role in leading the reserve side to a victory over South Sydney, setting up a late try that secured the win. This performance underscores his ongoing form and raises questions about his exclusion from the main squad, especially given the Knights’ current struggles.

NRL legend Andrew Johns has publicly criticized the Knights’ decision to sideline Hastings, urging the club to resolve internal issues for the betterment of the team. Johns emphasized the importance of fielding the best players, regardless of off-field disputes, stating, “For the good of the team, you have to put that aside.” His comments reflect a broader concern about the impact of personal conflicts on team performance.

This isn’t the first time Hastings has faced challenges within the team environment. In April 2024, he was involved in a training altercation with teammate Will Pryce. Although the incident was described as a “push and shove” with no punches thrown, it highlighted underlying tensions. The club downplayed the event, noting that such clashes are common in the high-pressure environment of NRL football.

Hastings’ career has seen its share of ups and downs. After stints with the Sydney Roosters, Manly Sea Eagles, and Wests Tigers in the NRL, he moved to the Super League, playing for Salford Red Devils and Wigan Warriors, where he was crowned Man of Steel in 2019. He returned to the NRL with the Knights in 2023, making 22 appearances that season and contributing significantly to the team’s performance.

The current situation raises questions about the balance between personal dynamics and professional responsibilities within sports teams. While off-field relationships can influence team cohesion, decisions that significantly impact team performance warrant careful consideration. As the Knights navigate this challenging period, the handling of Hastings’ situation will likely serve as a case study in managing personal conflicts within professional sports organizations.

Looking ahead, Hastings’ future with the Knights appears uncertain. With his contract set to expire at the end of the season and no renewal on the horizon, he may explore opportunities elsewhere, potentially returning to the Super League. For now, his performances in the NSW Cup will keep him in the spotlight, as fans and analysts alike watch to see how the situation unfolds.

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