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Picking the strongest starting XV in a major match game appears more and more old-fashioned these days, bringing back memories of different times such as vintage television. To the point that one could almost expect to see the England lineup against the All Blacks on Saturday displayed in a reversed order. Even with New Zealand in town, the conventional way of picking players no longer applies.

Focus on the Endgame

Rather, it's centered on the match finishes. On this occasion, the coach opted to selected multiple British & Irish Lions for the bench compared to just four in the starting lineup. At some point the 50-minute point on Saturday, there will be a mass substitution involving new talent entering play. As South Africa's renowned "impact substitutes" have shown, this tactic is extremely tough for opponents.

Possible Challenge

However, there is a minor snag. While facing the world's second-best sides, it is essential to start well too. Waiting for the arrival from key replacements like Tom Curry and others could seem less smart should New Zealand take a large lead by halftime, as they did against the Scots last week.

But this is today's approach in rugby. And not many are more knowledgeable on this topic than the England coach, who sat out several matches on the bench during his playing days.

Historical Examples

Including these matches, Borthwick recalled recently, is the famous match against the All Blacks in Wellington during 2003, where England's pack was reduced to six due to yellow cards. Even then, he along with other reserves remained on the sidelines for the entire match.

Conversely, in Rome earlier, the then-coach brought on four experienced leaders after 56 minutes, a move memorably referred to as "the most illustrious substitutes since."

Current Strategy

The current England bench choices almost rivals those for "impact player" energy, as the team obviously hoping to overtake New Zealand during the last 20 minutes. "Each game we've played against New Zealand has been close toward the end," Borthwick stated. "So we need the right players available to finish the game... utilizing that level of experience on the bench is also a key asset for us."

Fan Considerations

There will be fans spending premium rates on seats at the stadium wondering if a discount might be offered if games now largely hinge on only 20-odd stages rather than the entire 80 minutes. Joking aside, though, there is another quietly compelling reason: that the coach's trust toward younger talents like Joe Heyes is becoming so deep so that England's "strongest" first team is not precisely as casual supporters might think.

Selection Choices

If that qualifies him as "a bold selector" is a topic he's is minded to talk about – "I'm not go for labels... I try to select the best team possible to get the results" – but the team's current run with nine Test wins consecutively has reinforced his belief that international the sport has become more of a 23-man effort.

"In my view every member recognizes that it's a team effort. The 36 players here helping us prepare all play a part. That kind of selfless attitude has not always been present with past squads. That was different when I was a player."

Delicate Judgments

Some delicate choices have had to occur, even so, due to the absence of key players. The coach also says that "spoilt with options" at fly-half, so on this occasion, the decision one club's young talent who misses out entirely. Given wet weather forecast, choosing an experienced player at No 10 is hardly a huge shock, and ability of New Zealand's back three against kicks is sure face tested frequently.

Know-How plus Versatility

Then, there is the added importance of seasoned players together with the need for substitute option that is able to slot into other positions, particularly as a key individual not yet completely fit. "It was possible to picked either of the available playmakers then explain here saying why they're the right player since I think each one is terrific," Borthwick commented. "George provides very calm leader but also possesses the ability to unite the team together driving them onto attack. That's exactly what expecting him to deliver on Saturday."

Closing Outlook

Can it prove enough? England lost in all meetings by New Zealand previously with a combined margin only 10 points, and regarding taking opportunities, the opposition are as sharp as any. Given this scenario, it's likely a strong possibility of an intense contest which potentially boil down to the last stages. Which is clearly what this setup is expecting.