If nothing else is certain heading into Saturday's World Cup quarter-final against Australia, England flanker Lewis Moody will play his 50th Test as if it was his first.

Moody's style over the course of a six-year Test career has not changed one iota. He still puts his head in the most hazardous places.

It cost him two dazing blows last week against Tonga but his determination to play on did not escape Australia's attention.

''Lewis Moody showed how tough he is last week, getting his head knocked around but getting up and continuing on with the game,'' said George Smith, the man likely to be Moody's opposite number on Saturday.

''It shows the character in their team the way he never gives up.''

Moody has earned the nickname Crazy Horse but he was described yesterday by England head coach Brian Ashton as a ''mad dog'' and it is not far from the truth.

Lewis is the mad dog among Englishmen who will go out in the Marseille sun on Saturday afternoon determined to lead his country into the World Cup semi-finals, whatever the potential scars.

''I enjoy playing the game. I have always played one way and that is fully committed,'' said Moody. ''It is purely because when you are playing with your friends and colleagues you do everything physically possible to make sure your team win.

''The ball is the most important thing in the game and I always do my utmost to get it back.

''People say I should try to change the way I play but then I wouldn't bring what I bring to the team.

''I have been very lucky to play in some fantastic teams and with some great players. They have helped me get here but this weekend my only focus is on giving my all and winning the game, not the caps.

''There was never a doubt that I would play this weekend."

Moody made his Test debut against Ireland in the 2001 Six Nations defeat but was soon a regular in the England back three.

His Test career has been hampered by injury and his critics say he is not a natural openside flanker, but his champions, which have included England coaches Sir Clive Woodward, Andy Robinson and now Brian Ashton, recognise his athleticism and commitment.