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Picking the best starting XV for a big match game seems more and more outdated today, evoking thoughts of different times like vintage television. So much so where one might almost expect to see the home team lineup to face the All Blacks on Saturday printed in a reversed order. Even with the All Blacks visiting, this conventional method for choosing the team no longer applies.

Focus on the Final Stages

Instead, it's all about the game finishes. This time, Steve Borthwick has selected multiple British & Irish Lions on the substitutes compared to just four in the starting lineup. At some point the second half mark this weekend, there will be an extensive change with fresh players entering the field. Similar to the Springboks' famous "Bomb Squad" have shown, such a tactic is very difficult to counter.

Possible Challenge

But, comes one minor issue. When facing the world's second-best sides, it's vital to start well as well. Holding out for the introduction from key replacements like Tom Curry and teammates might seem less brilliant if the All Blacks build a significant advantage by halftime, as they did against the Scots last week.

Yet that's today's approach for you. And not many are more expert about this topic compared to Borthwick, who sat out several matches as an unused substitute during his playing days.

Historical Examples

Among these matches, Borthwick mentioned recently, is a notable match versus New Zealand in Wellington during 2003, when England's forwards was reduced to six due to yellow cards. At that time, Borthwick and other substitutes remained on the sidelines throughout the 80 minutes.

Conversely, during a match in Italy earlier, the then-coach brought on four experienced leaders around 56 minutes, strategy famously referred to as "an exceptionally strong bench ever."

Today's Strategy

The current England bench choices nearly rivals those for "Big Dog" vibes, as England obviously aiming to catch the opposition in the final quarter. "Each game we have played versus them has been close toward the end," Borthwick said. "So we need the right personnel available to finish the game... having that level of know-how on the bench is a key asset for us."

Fan Considerations

There will be those spending premium prices for seats this weekend questioning whether reduced pricing could be offered since matches now largely depend on just the final stages rather than the full 80 minutes. Joking aside, though, exists another quietly persuasive explanation: which is Borthwick's confidence toward younger players such as Joe Heyes is becoming sufficiently deep so that the "best" first team is not exactly as casual supporters would think.

Picking Choices

If this qualifies Borthwick as "an adventurous coach" is not something he's is minded to discuss – "I'm not into tags... I try and pick the best squad we possibly can for the results" – but the team's ongoing streak with nine victories consecutively has strengthened the view that international rugby has become more of a 23-man game.

"In my view each player understands that it's a collective effort. All the players in camp assisting the team prepare all contribute. This type of unselfish attitude hasn't always been present with past squads. That was not my experience during my time as a player."

Delicate Decisions

Several difficult choices have had to occur, even so, due to the absence of certain players. Borthwick also says that "blessed with options" in key positions, and this time, the decision one club's Fin Smith who is omitted completely. Considering the damp weather forecast, the selection an experienced player in the pivotal role is not a major surprise, while the security the All Blacks' defense under kicks is sure face examined frequently.

Know-How plus Versatility

Additionally, there is the added value of seasoned players and necessity to have a bench player that can slot into the back three, particularly as another player still completely fit. "It was possible to select either of the available playmakers then be sat now saying why they're the right player since I think each one is terrific," Borthwick commented. "He is a very calm presence but also possesses the skill to unite everyone together and [put] them onto the front foot. It's exactly what expecting him to do this weekend."

Closing Thoughts

Will it all be sufficient? The team were defeated in all meetings by the All Blacks last year with a combined difference only 10 points, and in terms of converting chances, the opposition are as sharp ever. In that scenario, it's likely a strong possibility of a close contest that could boil down to the final 20 minutes. That's clearly what the England approach is expecting.