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Selecting the best lineup for a major match contest feels more and more quaint today, bringing back thoughts of past eras like vintage television. To the point where one could almost expect finding the home team lineup against New Zealand on Saturday displayed in a reversed order. Even with the All Blacks visiting, the traditional way for choosing players no longer applies.

Emphasis on the Endgame

Rather, it's centered on how the game ends. This time, the coach opted to chosen six experienced players on the substitutes compared to only a few among the first XV. At some point during the second half mark this weekend, expect a mass change involving new players joining the field. Similar to South Africa's renowned "impact substitutes" has demonstrated, such a tactic is very tough for opponents.

Potential Challenge

However, there is a small snag. While playing the world's top-tier sides, it's essential to start strongly too. Waiting for the arrival of star replacements like Tom Curry or others could seem not so brilliant should the All Blacks build a significant advantage by halftime, like versus the Scots at Murrayfield.

Yet this is the modern approach for you. And few are more knowledgeable on the subject compared to Borthwick, who spent several games on the substitute in his career.

Past Examples

Including those matches, he mentioned recently, is the famous match against the All Blacks in Wellington during 2003, where the forwards were reduced to six due to disciplinary issues. At that time, Borthwick and other reserves remained on the sidelines for the entire match.

On the other hand, in Rome the previous year, Clive Woodward introduced multiple experienced leaders after 56 minutes, strategy famously described like "an exceptionally strong bench since."

Current Plan

The current England bench selection almost rivals those in terms of "Big Dog" vibes, with England obviously hoping to overtake New Zealand during the final 20 minutes. "Each game we've faced against them has gone toward the end," the coach said. "Therefore it's crucial suitable players on to finish strongly... having such a degree of know-how on the bench is also a key asset for the team."

Spectator Perspective

There will be those paying high rates on seats at the stadium wondering whether reduced pricing might be offered if matches currently effectively hinge around only the final minutes instead of the full 80 minutes. Joking aside, though, there is a further quietly persuasive reason: that the coach's trust in emerging talents such as Fin Baxter has grown sufficiently deep that the "strongest" first lineup may not be exactly what many supporters might assume.

Picking Choices

Whether that qualifies him as "an adventurous coach" is a topic he's inclined to talk about – "I'm not go for tags... I try to select the best team possible for the results" – yet the team's ongoing run of nine victories consecutively has strengthened his belief that international the sport has become increasingly an entire squad effort.

"I think each member recognizes this is a collective endeavor. The 36 players in camp assisting the team get ready all contribute. This type of selfless attitude hasn't necessarily existed present in an England team. It was not my experience when I was a player."

Delicate Decisions

Some difficult judgments have had to occur, however, with the absence of certain individuals. The coach additionally notes he feels "spoilt for choice" at fly-half, so this time, the decision one club's Fin Smith who is omitted entirely. Considering wet conditions expected, the selection of George Ford at No 10 is not a huge surprise, while ability the All Blacks' defense against high balls will likely face tested often.

Know-How and Versatility

Then, there is the extra value of seasoned players and necessity to have a bench option who is able to fill in other positions, particularly as a key individual still completely ready. "I could have picked either of the available playmakers and explain now talking why they're the right player because I believe they're all excellent," Borthwick said. "George provides very calm leader but also possesses the skill to bring everyone as one and [put] them onto the front foot. That's what I'll be looking for him to deliver this weekend."

Closing Thoughts

Can it prove enough? The team were defeated three times against New Zealand previously by a total margin only 10 points, and in terms of converting chances, Scott Robertson's side remain as sharp ever. In that scenario, it's likely a strong possibility of a close contest that could boil down to the last stages. That's clearly what this approach are anticipating.