Former England captain Lewis Moody discusses life after MND diagnosis

Former England captain Lewis Moody has opened up about the emotional reality of his motor neurone disease diagnosis in a candid discussion with former team-mate Ben Youngs.

The 2003 World Cup winner speaks extensively about his condition in a new documentary investigating player welfare.

Moody admits that "emotions are always close" as he navigates the challenges of life following the discovery of his illness.

Rugby safety in the spotlight

The conversation features in Ben Youngs Investigates: How Safe Is Rugby?, available now on BBC iPlayer.

Youngs, England’s most-capped male player, is examining the long-term impact of the sport on physical and neurological health.

The Leicester Tigers scrum-half shares a close bond with the former flanker, having played alongside him for both club and country.

Motor neurone disease has become a significant topic within the sport following the high-profile diagnoses of Rob Burrow, Doddie Weir, and Ed Slater.

Confronting the future

In the footage, the 46-year-old reflects on how the diagnosis has altered his perspective on daily life.

Moody earned 71 caps for his country and was known for his fearless and physical style of play during his career.

The programme explores the balance between the physicality of rugby union and the necessity of making the game safer for future generations.