Kalyn Ponga might look like "the coolest bloke in the world" but Jackson Hastings insists there is a serious side to his Newcastle teammate as the Queenslander makes the move to five-eighth in 2023.
Ponga was absent from Friday's underwhelming trial loss against Cronulla, with Hastings emerging unscathed in his first game back since breaking his right leg, one of the few positives for the Knights.
The Great Britain international was partnered with Tyson Gamble on Friday but he and Ponga are expected to be the club's halves duo come round one.
Hastings is relishing the prospect of testing that combination with Ponga in their second trial against Parramatta next Friday, saying his fellow playmaker's relaxed demeanour hides a fierce competitor who is determined to succeed.
"The first day I walked into the sheds at training he came in with a bright pink singlet on, hat backwards and he gave me this big hug like we'd known each other for years," Hastings said.
"I know he gives off that persona that he's too cool for school and he's just relaxed but he loves the game.
"He's a pretty deep thinker to be honest. He has such a raw, natural talent that you have to put him in positions and watch him go to work.
"He's taken that leadership responsibility really seriously this year. I can't speak to previous years but this year he's hell bent on being the best captain and best player he can be."
The Knights finished 14th last season and coach Adam O'Brien has put his faith in Ponga's partnership with Hastings dragging them up the table.
Newcastle are also in a battle to retain towering English winger Dominic Young, who is being pursued by rival NRL clubs following a breakout World Cup.
Young wants a decision wrapped up before the NRL season starts and Hastings has done his best to convince the 200cm-tall flyer Newcastle is the best place for him.
"We've all told him we want him to stay," Hastings said.
"He's proven last year, in a side that didn't go all that great, that he's a genuine finisher.
"He's got a massive body, he's a genetic freak, I'd back him to be the fastest in the comp when he gets going - it's scared me how quick he is.
"We want him to stay. Dom's got to make the best decision for Dom, but I know Newcastle will do everything they can to keep him."
