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Selecting the top lineup in a major rugby game appears more and more old-fashioned today, bringing back memories of bygone days such as classic TV shows. So much so where you might nearly expect to see this England lineup to face New Zealand this weekend displayed with a jumbled sequence. Despite the All Blacks in town, this traditional method of choosing players doesn't hold true.

Focus on the Final Stages

Instead, the focus is all about the match finishes. On this occasion, the coach has selected multiple British & Irish Lions for the substitutes compared to only a few among the first XV. Around during the 50-minute mark this weekend, expect a mass substitution with new players joining play. As South Africa's famous "impact substitutes" have shown, this approach can be very tough to counter.

Potential Challenge

But, comes a small issue. When playing one of the globe's second-best sides, it's crucial to begin strongly as well. Waiting for the introduction from star replacements such as Tom Curry or others could appear less smart should the All Blacks take a significant lead early on, like versus Scotland last week.

But this is the modern way for you. Furthermore not many are more expert about the subject than Borthwick, as he spent multiple games on the bench in his career.

Historical Context

Including those occasions, Borthwick recalled recently, is the famous Test versus New Zealand abroad back in 2003, where the pack was cut to six because of yellow cards. At that time, he along with fellow substitutes stayed unused for the entire 80 minutes.

Conversely, in Rome the previous year, the then-coach brought on four England captains around 56 minutes, strategy memorably described like "an exceptionally strong bench since."

Current Strategy

The current team's bench selection nearly matches those in terms of "Big Dog" vibes, with England clearly hoping to catch New Zealand during the last 20 minutes. "Each match we have played versus New Zealand has gone late," the coach said. "So we need suitable players available to close out the game... utilizing that level of know-how among substitutes is an important advantage for us."

Fan Considerations

There will be those spending high rates on tickets this weekend wondering if reduced pricing could be available since matches currently largely depend around just 20-odd minutes instead of the full match. Joking aside, however, exists a further quietly compelling explanation: which is the coach's trust in younger talents such as Fin Baxter has becoming sufficiently deep that England's "strongest" starting team is not exactly as casual supporters might assume.

Picking Decisions

If this qualifies him to be "a bold coach" remains a topic he is minded to talk about – "I don't into labels... I aim and pick the strongest team possible for the results" – yet the team's ongoing run with nine victories in a row has strengthened the view how international rugby has become more of an entire squad effort.

"In my view each member recognizes that it's a collective effort. All the players in camp assisting the team get ready each play a part. That kind of unselfish attitude hasn't always existed the case with past squads. It was not my experience when I was a player."

Delicate Judgments

Some delicate judgments have had to be made, even so, due to injuries of certain players. Borthwick also notes he feels "blessed for choice" in key positions, and this time, it is one club's young talent who misses out entirely. Considering wet weather forecast, choosing of George Ford in the pivotal role is not a huge surprise, while the security the All Blacks' defense under high balls will likely face examined frequently.

Experience plus Flexibility

Additionally, comes the added value of experience together with necessity for substitute option that is able to fill in other positions, particularly as a key individual still completely ready. "I could have select any of the three playmakers and explain now talking about how they're the best choice since I think each one is terrific," Borthwick said. "He is a composed presence but also possesses the ability to bring everyone as one driving the team onto the front foot. It's exactly what looking for him to deliver on Saturday."

Final Outlook

Can it prove sufficient? England were defeated in all meetings against the All Blacks last year with a combined margin of just 10 points, and regarding taking chances, Scott Robertson's side are highly effective ever. Given this event, there must be a strong possibility of a close battle that potentially come down to the last stages. That's clearly what this approach are expecting.