Lewis Moody talks England in New Zealand

The last time England visited New Zealand, Lewis Moody was the captain and the 2003 Rugby World Cup winner is confident the England team travelling to face the All Blacks will come away from the series with something to show for their efforts.

Speaking on behalf of Land Rover, Moody commented:

“There is every chance these two teams could be facing each other in the World Cup Final next year but I don’t think this tour is a dress rehearsal, because of all the situations; the clash with the Premiership Final, the players that are missing through injury. So it could be a very different side that face the All Blacks in a year’s time, but it will certainly be a great stepping stone in terms of England’s development and the lessons that they will take into 2015 and that preparation for the World Cup.”

“It’s a tough place to go and play but it’s not impossible. It’s been a long time, eleven years I think, since England last won in New Zealand. I have to admit, I’m positive about this team because England, the last two times they played them have won one and narrowly been defeated, but playing in New Zealand is very different and the guys will find that out.

“I can’t see them winning the first test with the number of injuries and the number of players missing, which means it will come down to the second test; can the guys come in and galvanise everything really quickly? Will those guys be frustrated that started, that are then not starting? So a lot of conundrums for Stuart [Lancaster] but ultimately, if they come out with one win, they have had a successful tour.”

“You cannot switch off at any moment when you play New Zealand, whether it’s here or away, especially away because they despise losing in they own back yard.”

Lewis Moody was speaking on behalf of Land Rover. Land Rover is the Official Vehicle and Worldwide Partner of Rugby World Cup 2015 and the Official Vehicle of Premiership Rugby