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Selecting your top lineup for a big rugby game seems increasingly quaint nowadays, bringing back thoughts of different times like classic TV shows. To the point where you might almost anticipate finding the England selection to face New Zealand on Saturday printed in a reversed order. Even with New Zealand visiting, this conventional method of picking the team no longer hold true.

Emphasis on the Endgame

Rather, it's centered on the game ends. This time, the coach has chosen six British & Irish Lions on the bench versus only four among the first XV. Around during the second half mark this weekend, there will be a mass change involving fresh talent entering the field. As South Africa's famous "Bomb Squad" have shown, this approach can be very difficult to counter.

Possible Pitfall

However, there is a small issue. When playing one of the globe's second-best teams, it's crucial to start strongly as well. Holding out for the arrival of star replacements such as Tom Curry and others could appear less brilliant should the All Blacks build a large advantage by halftime, as they did versus Scotland at Murrayfield.

Yet this is today's way for you. And not many know more expert on the subject than the England coach, who sat out several matches as an unused substitute in his career.

Historical Examples

Including those occasions, Borthwick mentioned this week, is a notable Test against New Zealand in Wellington during 2003, where the forwards were cut down due to disciplinary issues. Even then, Borthwick and other reserves remained on the sidelines throughout the match.

On the other hand, in Rome earlier, Clive Woodward introduced four experienced leaders around 56 minutes, strategy famously referred to like "an exceptionally strong substitutes since."

Today's Plan

The current team's substitute selection nearly matches those for "Big Dog" energy, as England clearly aiming to catch New Zealand in the last quarter. "Every game we've played versus them has been close late," Borthwick stated. "Therefore it's crucial suitable players available to finish strongly... having that level of know-how on the bench is an important advantage for the team."

Spectator Perspective

Some fans paying high prices on tickets at the stadium wondering whether reduced pricing could be available if matches currently effectively depend around just the final minutes instead of the entire match. Joking aside, however, there is a further subtly compelling explanation: that Borthwick's confidence in younger talents like Fin Baxter is grown so strong that England's "best" starting team may not be precisely what casual fans might assume.

Picking Decisions

Whether this qualifies Borthwick to be "a bold selector" is a topic he's is minded to discuss – "I don't go for tags... I aim to select the strongest squad we possibly can to get the results" – but England's current run of nine Test wins consecutively has strengthened his belief that Test the sport has become more of a 23-man game.

"I think each player understands that it's a collective effort. The 36 individuals here helping us get ready all play a part. That kind of unselfish attitude has not necessarily existed the case with past squads. It was different during my time as playing."

Delicate Judgments

Several difficult judgments have had to occur, however, with injuries of certain players. Borthwick additionally says he feels "blessed with options" at fly-half, so this time, the decision one club's young talent who misses out completely. Given the damp conditions expected, the selection of George Ford at No 10 is hardly a major shock, while ability of New Zealand's back three against high balls will likely to be examined often.

Know-How plus Versatility

Additionally, there is the added value of seasoned players and the need for a bench player that can slot into other positions, particularly with another player not yet fully fit. "I could have select either of the three fly-halves and explain here talking why they're the right player because I believe they're all excellent," he said. "He provides very calm presence and has the ability to unite everyone together driving the team on to attack. That's exactly what expecting him to do this weekend."

Closing Outlook

Will it prove enough? England were defeated three times against New Zealand last year by a total margin only 10 points, while in terms of converting opportunities, Scott Robertson's side are highly effective as any. Given this scenario, it's likely every chance of a close contest that could boil down to the final stages. Which is clearly what this approach are anticipating.