Lewis Moody will make an emotional return to Twickenham this weekend as he delivers the match ball for England’s autumn international against Australia — his first public appearance at the national stadium since revealing his diagnosis with motor neurone disease.
The former England captain and World Cup winner, now 47, announced earlier this month that he is living with MND, the incurable neurological condition that progressively weakens the muscles and affects movement.
His revelation sent shockwaves through the rugby world, prompting an outpouring of support from players, fans, and former teammates across both hemispheres.
Moody, a cornerstone of England’s 2003 World Cup triumph, said he was deeply moved by the response.
“It was one of my life’s greatest pleasures to play for England,” he said.
“More importantly, I loved the privilege of doing it alongside some of the most competitive, loyal, committed and hardworking individuals I have ever met.
“Those bonds and values feel stronger than ever as a new challenge presents itself, and the love and support of this special community embraces us.”
Lewis Moody established himself as a rugby legend during his time in the sport
|GBNEWS/PA/GETTY
He added: “It will be an honour to carry the match ball out on Saturday as a new generation of warriors get set to pull on the jersey and make us proud.
“My family and I are truly grateful to all the players, England Rugby and Rugby Australia for their kindness and support.”
Saturday’s occasion will carry a powerful emotional weight as Twickenham unites behind one of its most respected servants.
Lewis Moody revealed his motor neurone disease diagnosis earlier this month
| BBCThe Rugby Football Union will use the match to highlight the GoFundMe campaign launched by Moody’s former Leicester teammates Geordan Murphy and Leon Lloyd to support him and his family. Donations have already surpassed £190,000.
Moody made his first public appearance since his diagnosis earlier this month when Leicester and Bath — the two clubs he represented during his illustrious career — met in a Premiership fixture.
The reception he received was one of warmth and admiration for a player remembered as fearless on the field and universally respected off it.
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Lewis Moody was part of the 2003 World Cup-winning side and played for Leicester Tigers and Bath Rugby | GETTYMotor neurone disease has affected several prominent figures in rugby, including Joost van der Westhuizen, Doddie Weir, Rob Burrow and Ed Slater.
Van der Westhuizen, Weir and Burrow all tragically lost their battles with the condition, while Slater continues to campaign and raise awareness.
Moody’s openness about his diagnosis has once again drawn attention to the urgent need for continued research and support for those affected.
Known throughout his career for his relentless energy and courage, Moody earned 71 caps for England and was a central figure in their 2003 World Cup-winning campaign under Sir Clive Woodward.
His leadership, determination and humility made him one of the most admired players of his generation.
Lewis Moody discovered he had MND after noticing some weakness in his shoulder while training in the gym
| PAAs England prepare to begin their autumn campaign against Australia, the moment Moody walks out with the match ball is expected to be greeted with a standing ovation.
For fans and former teammates alike, it will serve as both a celebration of his extraordinary contribution to English rugby and a show of solidarity as he faces his toughest battle yet.
In Cardiff, meanwhile, Wales head coach Steve Tandy suffered a blow ahead of his first autumn series in charge, with veteran No 8 Taulupe Faletau ruled out through a knee injury.
The 34-year-old picked up the problem in Cardiff’s win over Edinburgh last weekend. Leicester’s uncapped Olly Cracknell has been called up as his replacement.