The crowd at Twickenham stood in unison on Saturday afternoon, their applause echoing through the stands as Lewis Moody made his emotional return to the home of English rugby.
The former England captain, once known for his fearless tackles and relentless energy, stepped out with a quiet strength — this time not to play, but to deliver the match ball ahead of England’s autumn opener against Australia.
It was a powerful moment that transcended sport.
Just weeks after revealing his diagnosis with motor neurone disease (MND), Moody was met with an outpouring of love and respect from thousands who once cheered his every move on the pitch.
The Rugby World Rallies Around Its Warrior
Moody’s announcement last month sent shockwaves through the rugby community, but in true rugby fashion, the sport has closed ranks to support one of its greats.
At 47, the former flanker remains as inspiring as ever — and today, that inspiration filled Twickenham.
As he walked out onto the field, his trademark grin still intact, the electronic boards around the stadium lit up with the words: “We are all with you, Lewis.”
The crowd rose to their feet, chanting his name, while Moody greeted officials with a handshake and stood alongside his family to sing the national anthem.
A Moment of Pride and Emotion
After England’s 25–7 victory over Australia, Moody joined the squad in the dressing room to celebrate the win — a fitting close to an afternoon steeped in pride, unity, and admiration.
Before the game, he spoke with the same passion that defined his playing career, reflecting on the privilege of representing his country.
“It was one of my life’s greatest pleasures to play for England,” Moody shared.
“More importantly, I loved the privilege of doing it alongside some of the most loyal, hardworking individuals I’ve ever met.
Those bonds and values feel stronger than ever today as a new challenge presents itself.”
He added that carrying the match ball for the next generation of players was an “honour” — one that filled him and his family with immense gratitude for the love shown by England Rugby, Rugby Australia, and fans worldwide.
A Battle Beyond the Pitch
Saturday marked only Moody’s second public appearance since revealing his diagnosis.
The former flanker is now facing a new opponent — a life-shortening neurological disease that weakens the nerves controlling muscle movement.
Motor neurone disease has affected several other rugby greats, including Joost van der Westhuizen, Doddie Weir, Rob Burrow, and Ed Slater.
Tragically, Van der Westhuizen, Weir, and Burrow have all since passed away from the illness.
There’s currently no cure for MND, but those close to Moody have launched a campaign to help support him and his family through the challenges ahead.
The Rugby Family Steps Up
A GoFundMe page, shared by the Rugby Football Union and set up by Moody’s close friend, has already raised more than £200,000.
The fundraiser describes him as “the most kind and inspirational person,” not only for his achievements on the field with Leicester, Bath, England, and the British & Irish Lions, but also for his years of charity work off it.
Through The Lewis Moody Foundation, he has spent over a decade raising more than £2 million to support those affected by brain tumours.
Now, that same selflessness and optimism are shining through again as he confronts his own health battle.
“Lewis has already found it within himself to stay positive and live life to the fullest,” the fundraiser reads.
“He’s focusing on each moment as it comes, with the same determination he showed every time he wore that England shirt.”
A Standing Ovation That Said It All
As Moody left the field, applause still rang through Twickenham.
It was the kind of ovation reserved for legends — a heartfelt reminder that, for England fans, Lewis Moody will always be more than a rugby hero.
He’s a fighter, a leader, and now, a symbol of courage in the face of life’s toughest opponent.