Former captain Lawrence Dallaglio believes Lewis Moody's leadership can inspire England to a memorable Test win over New Zealand at Twickenham on Saturday.

Moody will retain the captaincy for at least the opening Test of the four-match autumn series after he led the Red Rose to a rare win on Australian soil on their last outing in June.

England held on for a 21-20 win in Sydney, which was their first success over a Tri-Nations team since the 2007 World Cup, to renew belief in Martin Johnson's team.

Dallaglio believes the ascent of Moody to the captaincy is key to an England revival and said that if he can match the influence of his opposite number, Richie McCaw, another memorable Test win could be on the cards.

"People talk about great captains leading by example. Lewis Moody is certainly someone who will not take a backward step," he said.

"His work-rate and intensity are second to none, if the other 21 players in the England squad can match his intensity and work-rate then we are going to give the All Blacks a very good game."

Dallaglio continued: "He's up against probably one of the best players in the world (McCaw), one of the best number sevens to play rugby. I think he's one of the iconic and outstanding All Black captains."

He added: "If Lewis Moody leads by example and outplays his opposite number then the England team will come very close to beating the All Blacks."