Josh Lewsey: Mental toughness key to success at Rugby World Cup

Former England international Josh Lewsey believes mental toughness will be the defining characteristic in whichever team wins the Rugby World Cup later this year.

Lewsey is well placed to speak about what it takes to win the Webb Ellis Trophy after lining up at full-back in Clive Woodward’s World Cup-winning side of 12 years ago.

As hosts, the pressure is on the current England side to advance into the latter stages of the tournament but they must first negotiate a safe passage through a brutally tough group that also contains Wales and Australia.

When asked to identify the quality that underpinned England's world title charge in 2003, Lewsey said: "Mental edge. We had it, and that is the one thing that defines champions.

"There is no difference in how strong they (teams) are or skill-wise, but on the biggest stage when it matters most, big-match players deliver.

"When you get to a global stage it can be quite intimidating, so that's why mental edge is the one quality that distinguishes winners and good players from champions."

Reigning champions New Zealand are currently strong favourites with Sky Bet to retain the crown the won on home soil four years ago, while South Africa are second favourites.

Next come hosts England and RBS Six Nations champions Ireland and Lewsey is hopeful a team from the northern hemisphere can win the trophy for only the second time its history.

"You have got to have that belief if you are going to win tournaments and win trophies, and let's hope a northern hemisphere team does it again this year,” Lewsey said.

"Historically, the southern hemisphere have clearly led the way. The way the draw has worked it's likely at least one northern-hemisphere team will get to the final, but we shall see.

“There are some proper teams there, and it makes for a fantastic occasion."