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Picking your top lineup in a major rugby game seems increasingly outdated nowadays, evoking thoughts of bygone days like vintage television. So much so where you might nearly anticipate to see this home team lineup against New Zealand this weekend printed with a reversed sequence. Even with the All Blacks in town, the conventional method for choosing players no longer applies.

Emphasis on the Final Stages

Rather, the focus is centered on the game concludes. On this occasion, Steve Borthwick opted to selected six experienced players on the bench versus just a few among the first XV. Around the second half mark this weekend, expect a mass substitution involving new talent entering play. Similar to South Africa's renowned "Bomb Squad" has shown, this approach is very tough for opponents.

Potential Challenge

However, comes a small snag. When facing the world's top-tier sides, it's essential to start well too. Waiting for the introduction from key replacements like Tom Curry or teammates could appear not so brilliant should the All Blacks build a significant lead early on, like against Scotland at Murrayfield.

But that's the modern approach for you. And few are more knowledgeable about the subject compared to the England coach, as he sat out multiple matches on the bench in his career.

Historical Examples

Including those occasions, Borthwick recalled this week, was a notable Test versus the All Blacks abroad during 2003, where England's pack were reduced to six because of disciplinary issues. At that time, Borthwick along with other substitutes remained on the sidelines for the entire match.

Conversely, during a match in Italy the previous year, the then-coach introduced four England captains after the hour mark, a move memorably described as "an exceptionally strong bench since."

Current Strategy

The current team's substitute selection almost rivals that for "Big Dog" vibes, as England clearly hoping to overtake the opposition in the final 20 minutes. "Each game we've faced against New Zealand has gone toward the end," Borthwick said. "So it's crucial the right players available to finish the game... having that level of know-how among substitutes is also a key asset for the team."

Fan Considerations

There will be fans spending premium rates on seats at the stadium wondering if a discount might be available if games now effectively depend around just the final minutes rather than the full 80 minutes. Joking aside, however, there is another quietly compelling reason: that Borthwick's confidence in emerging talents such as Fin Baxter is grown sufficiently strong that the "best" starting lineup is not exactly what casual fans might think.

Picking Choices

Whether this qualifies him to be "an adventurous coach" is not something he's inclined to discuss – "I'm not into labels... I aim and pick the best squad we possibly can for success" – yet England's current streak of nine Test wins in a row has strengthened his belief how international the sport has become increasingly an entire squad game.

"In my view each member recognizes this is a collective effort. The 36 individuals in camp helping the team prepare all contribute. That kind of unselfish mindset hasn't always existed the case in an England team. That was different during my time as playing."

Delicate Decisions

Several difficult judgments are having to occur, however, with the absence of certain players. Borthwick additionally says he feels "blessed with options" in key positions, so on this occasion, the decision Northampton's Fin Smith who is omitted completely. Considering wet weather forecast, choosing an experienced player in the pivotal role is hardly a major shock, and the security of New Zealand's defense against high balls will likely to be examined often.

Know-How plus Versatility

Additionally, there is the extra value of seasoned players together with the need to have substitute player that can fill in other positions, especially with a key individual not yet completely fit. "It was possible to select any of the three playmakers then explain here talking why they're the right player because I think each one is excellent," he commented. "George provides composed leader but also possesses the skill to bring everyone as one and [put] the team on to the front foot. It's exactly what looking for from him to do on Saturday."

Closing Outlook

Will it all be sufficient? The team were defeated in all meetings against the All Blacks last year with a combined difference of just 10 points, while in terms of converting opportunities, the opposition remain as sharp as any. Given this event, there must be every chance of a close battle which could come down to the last 20 minutes. Which is clearly what the England approach is expecting.