Jackson Hastings injury: Newcastle Knights halfback cleared of serious damage

Newcastle fans can breathe a massive sigh of relief, with halfback Jackson Hastings cleared of a serious ankle injury following the side's massive win over the Bulldogs on Sunday. 

Hastings left the field in the first-half following a hip-drop from Jacob Preston, who was sin-binned by the match officials and has since been charged by the NRL judiciary. 

His leg was twisted under the tackle, with the No. 7 in clear pain. He eventually returned to his feet and was assisted back to the sheds.

Jacob Preston gets sent to the sin bin for this dangerous tackle on Jackson Hastings.

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But in a major boost for the resurgent Knights, Hastings could line up as soon as their Round 25 clash with South Sydney after scans revealed a minor syndesmosis injury. 

"Scans today have confirmed nib Newcastle Knights halfback Jackson Hastings has a low-grade syndesmosis injury in the same leg that ended his 2022 season," the club statement said. 

"In good news, the previous surgery has ensured the damage was minimal and Hastings will be assessed on a day-to-day basis. 

"Hastings has commenced treatment this morning, with a positive attitude to return to the field, including the potential of playing this weekend against the Rabbitohs."

Adam O'Brien reacts to Jackson Hastings' injury

The severity of Hastings' injury is unclear, with scans to be conducted on Monday.

Knights coach Adam O'Brien isn't overly optimistic, though.

"It's not looking good, he's in a boot," he said. 

"They're talking it's his syndesmosis. He'll get scans tomorrow. Sometimes you're just trying to bring a guy down.

"I'm naturally disappointed that [the tackle] has caused the guy an injury."

Newcastle Knights 2023 injury list