Jackson Hastings Returns to St Helens, Ignited by Paul Rowley's Vision
The Super League landscape is buzzing with the news of Jackson Hastings' high-profile return to St Helens. The former Man of Steel winner is set to spearhead a new era for the club under the ambitious guidance of new head coach Paul Rowley, a move that signals St Helens' intent to reclaim their Super League dominance.
A New Chapter for Hastings and Saints
Jackson Hastings, a player renowned for his dynamic playmaking and leadership, has been a significant figure in both Australian and English rugby league. His return to St Helens marks a homecoming of sorts, and one that has been heavily influenced by the arrival of Paul Rowley as the club's new head coach. Rowley, who has a proven track record of transforming teams, is aiming to instill a 'licence to thrill' philosophy at the Totally Wicked Stadium.
Rowley's Influence and 'Licence to Thrill'
St Helens head coach Paul Rowley, fresh from his impactful stints at Leigh and Salford, has arrived with a clear mandate: to revive the club's trophy-winning pedigree. After a period of falling short of their historic Super League triumphs, Rowley is eager to inject flair and confidence back into the Saints squad. "I think the difference between the teams that pull the trigger and who don't is confidence and backing yourself," Rowley told BBC Sport. "I don't think it's skill or ability, it's backing yourself and having the licence to play. The players have the licence, basically."
Rowley's coaching philosophy is centred on empowering his players, fostering a culture of self-belief, and encouraging an attacking, entertaining style of play. This approach is seen as the perfect catalyst for a player like Hastings, who thrives on having the freedom to express himself on the field. The former Man of Steel winner's experience and skill set are expected to be pivotal in implementing Rowley's vision.
St Helens' Ambitious Recruitment Drive
The arrival of Hastings is part of a significant recruitment drive by St Helens for the 2026 season. The club has made several key signings aimed at strengthening their pack and adding strike power across the field. The additions of formidable forwards like David Klemmer and Jacob Host are set to bolster the Saints' pack, providing a strong platform for their attacking plays. Furthermore, Nene Macdonald's arrival adds further dynamism and try-scoring threat to the team's wider attacking options.
Hastings' Impetus for Return
Speaking about his decision to return to St Helens, Hastings highlighted the impact of Paul Rowley's appointment. "It was a big factor, definitely," Hastings admitted. "Paul's a great coach, and I've always admired his teams and the way they play. He's got a real knack for getting the best out of his players, and I'm really looking forward to working under him."
The combination of Hastings' individual brilliance and Rowley's strategic acumen is a potent mix that has St Helens fans dreaming of a return to Super League glory. The club, accustomed to success, has felt the sting of recent trophy-less seasons, and this new partnership is seen as the key to unlocking their next championship chapter.
The 'Goldfish Bowl' and Rowley's Experience
Rowley, while preferring a quieter lifestyle off the field, has embraced the intense scrutiny and passion of rugby league in St Helens. He acknowledges the 'goldfish bowl' nature of coaching such a prominent club but relishes the connection with the passionate fanbase. "I love the fact that the people of St Helens are so aligned with the club," Rowley commented. "You can feel it and it's tangible. It's good that people are so willing and wanting for us to do well."
His previous work at Salford, where he guided the team to consecutive top-six finishes despite significant off-field turmoil and eventual liquidation, demonstrates his resilience and ability to achieve success even in challenging circumstances. This experience, coupled with his successes at Leigh and Toronto Wolfpack, positions him as the ideal candidate to steer St Helens forward.
Stability After Salford's Chaos
Rowley's time at Salford in 2025 was marked by a takeover saga that disrupted the entire season, leading to player departures and ultimately the club's liquidation. Despite this chaos, he managed to secure a fourth-place finish in 2024, a testament to his coaching prowess. The move to St Helens offers a chance for stability and the opportunity to build a long-term legacy with a club that has the resources and infrastructure to support sustained success.
Looking Ahead to the 2026 Season
With Jackson Hastings back in the fold and Paul Rowley at the helm, St Helens are poised to be formidable contenders in the 2026 Super League season. The blend of established talent, exciting new signings, and a coach determined to bring back a thrilling brand of rugby league creates a compelling narrative for the upcoming campaign. The focus now shifts to how this new-look Saints side will gel and whether they can indeed deliver on the high expectations placed upon them.
The partnership between Hastings and Rowley represents a bold statement of intent from St Helens, signalling their unwavering commitment to returning to the pinnacle of Super League rugby.
