After Elton Flatley had levelled the scores at 17-17 with a nerveless penalty on 97 minutes, George Smith received the ball from the restart, with Moody the first man there to tackle him.
Seconds later, Wallabies halfback George Gregan passed the ball back to Mat Rogers to kick for touch. Again, Moody was the first man there, diving at full stretch to deprive Rogers of vital metres as he lined up his clearing kick deep in his own half.
Lewis Moody, on left, with England teammates after their victory in the 2003 World Cup final.Credit: PA Images via Getty Images
Ultimately, England won the attacking lineout, eventually setting up the attacking platform for Jonny Wilkinson to kick the World Cup-winning drop goal.
“He was abrasive,” Waugh said. “When you think of people who put their body on the line, his name comes on top.
“He was ferocious, had little regard for his body and did everything for his team. In that final, when you were able to bring on someone like Lewis Moody, those are the big moments, that defined the outcome, and ultimately, Lewis’ impact was instrumental in them closing them out the game to win.”
Waugh is looking forward to catching up with Moody on Saturday.
Former league star Mat Rogers watches on as England claim the Rugby World Cup in 2003.Credit: AP
“It’s going to be an emotional day for him on Saturday, to be involved in the pre-game,” Waugh said.
“It’s the first English Test since the announcement. I’ll definitely catch up with him and I’m really looking forward to that. We’ve been in touch.
“After playing Test rugby, there’s always that connection and that bond. There’s that great respect, and I always had that for Lewis, who played the game hard, but always very fair.”
Moody has thanked both England and the Wallabies for their support as he and family navigate the diagnosis.
“It was one of my life’s greatest pleasures to play for England; to pull on that white jersey, to represent it and all those who had supported and contributed to my journey, in a way that would make them proud,” Moody 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 to me today, as a new challenge presents itself and the love and support of this special community embraces us.
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“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 all their kindness and support.”
A fundraising page has been set up to help Moody and his family.
Doddie Weir, the Scotland and British and Irish Lions great, and Rob Burrow, the England rugby league legend, have died from the disease in the last three years.
