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Selecting your best starting XV in a big match game feels more and more outdated today, bringing back memories of bygone days like vintage television. So much so where you might nearly expect to see the England lineup against the All Blacks on Saturday displayed in a reversed sequence. Even with New Zealand in town, this conventional way for picking the team no longer applies.

Focus on the Final Stages

Instead, it's all about the match ends. This time, the coach opted to chosen six experienced players for the substitutes compared to only a few in the starting lineup. Around the 50-minute mark this weekend, expect an extensive substitution with new players entering the field. As South Africa's renowned "Bomb Squad" have shown, this approach is very tough to counter.

Possible Pitfall

But, there is one minor issue. While playing the world's top-tier teams, it's essential to start well as well. Waiting until the introduction of key substitutes like Ellis Genge or teammates could appear less smart if New Zealand build a large lead early on, as they did versus the Scots last week.

Yet this is today's approach for you. Furthermore not many know more expert about the subject compared to the England coach, as he sat out multiple games on the bench in his career.

Historical Examples

Including these matches, he recalled this week, is the famous Test versus the All Blacks in Wellington during 2003, where England's pack were cut to six because of yellow cards. Even then, Borthwick and other reserves stayed unused throughout the match.

On the other hand, in Rome the previous year, Clive Woodward brought on four experienced leaders around the hour mark, a move famously described like "an exceptionally strong bench ever."

Current Plan

The current team's substitute choices almost matches that for "Big Dog" vibes, as the team obviously hoping to catch New Zealand during the final 20 minutes. "Each game we've faced against New Zealand has gone late," the coach said. "So we need suitable players available to finish the game... utilizing such a degree of know-how among substitutes is an important asset for the team."

Fan Considerations

Some those paying premium rates for tickets at the stadium questioning whether a discount might be offered if games now largely depend on only the final stages instead of the entire match. Seriously, though, there is a further subtly compelling explanation: which is Borthwick's trust toward younger players like Joe Heyes has grown so strong that the "best" first lineup may not be exactly as many supporters would assume.

Selection Choices

Whether this qualifies Borthwick as "an adventurous coach" remains a topic he's inclined to talk about – "I'm not into labels... I aim to select the best team we possibly can to get success" – yet England's ongoing run of nine victories in a row has strengthened his belief how Test rugby has become more of an entire squad game.

"I think each player understands this is a collective effort. All the players in camp helping us get ready all contribute. This type of selfless attitude hasn't always existed the case with England team. It was not my experience during my time as a player."

Delicate Decisions

Several delicate judgments have had to occur, however, with injuries of key individuals. The coach additionally notes that "spoilt for choice" in key positions, and on this occasion, the decision one club's young talent that is omitted completely. Considering wet weather forecast, the selection of George Ford in the pivotal role is hardly a major shock, while ability the All Blacks' defense under kicks is sure face examined frequently.

Experience plus Flexibility

Then, comes the extra importance of seasoned players and necessity for substitute option who can fill in other positions, especially with a key player still completely ready. "I could have picked either of the available playmakers then be sat here saying why each is the right choice because I think each one is terrific," Borthwick said. "George provides very calm leader but also possesses the ability to unite everyone as one and [put] the team on to attack. It's what I'll be expecting from him to deliver on Saturday."

Final Thoughts

Can it all be enough? England were defeated three times against New Zealand last year by a total difference of just a small amount, while in terms of converting opportunities, the opposition are highly effective ever. In that event, there must be every chance of an intense contest that could boil down to the last 20 minutes. Which is exactly what this approach are anticipating.