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Selecting the best starting XV in a major rugby game seems increasingly old-fashioned these days, evoking memories of past eras like classic TV shows. To the point where you could almost anticipate to see this home team selection against New Zealand this weekend displayed in a jumbled sequence. Even with the All Blacks in town, the traditional method of picking players no longer applies.

Focus on the Final Stages

Rather, the focus is centered on the game concludes. On this occasion, the coach has chosen multiple experienced players for the substitutes compared to only four among the starting lineup. At some point the 50-minute mark on Saturday, there will be a mass change involving new talent joining play. Similar to South Africa's famous "Bomb Squad" has demonstrated, such a tactic is extremely difficult for opponents.

Possible Challenge

But, there is one small issue. When playing one of the globe's top-tier sides, it is crucial to start well too. Holding out for the introduction from key substitutes like Tom Curry and teammates could appear less smart should the All Blacks build a significant lead early on, like versus the Scots at Murrayfield.

But that's the modern way for you. Furthermore not many are more expert on this topic than the England coach, as he sat out several games as an unused bench during his career.

Past Examples

Including these matches, Borthwick recalled this week, was a notable Test versus New Zealand in Wellington during 2003, when the pack was reduced down due to disciplinary issues. At that time, he along with other reserves stayed unused for the entire 80 minutes.

On the other hand, during a match in Italy the previous year, the then-coach introduced four experienced leaders after the hour mark, a move famously described as "the most illustrious substitutes since."

Today's Plan

The current England bench selection almost rivals that for "impact player" vibes, as the team clearly hoping to catch New Zealand in the last 20 minutes. "Each match we've played against them has been close toward the end," Borthwick said. "Therefore we need suitable personnel on to close out strongly... having that level of experience among substitutes is an important asset for the team."

Fan Perspective

There will be fans spending premium prices on tickets this weekend wondering whether a discount could be available if matches now largely depend on only the final stages rather than the full 80 minutes. Seriously, though, there is a further quietly persuasive reason: that the coach's trust toward emerging players like Joe Heyes has grown so deep that the "best" first lineup is not exactly as casual supporters might assume.

Picking Choices

If this qualifies Borthwick as "a bold coach" remains a topic he's inclined to talk about – "I don't go for labels... I aim and pick the strongest team possible to get success" – yet England's current run with nine Test wins consecutively has reinforced the view how international rugby is increasingly an entire squad game.

"I think every player recognizes that it's a team endeavor. All the individuals in camp helping the team get ready all play a part. That kind of selfless attitude has not always existed the case in an England team. That was different during my time as playing."

Tough Decisions

Some difficult choices have had to be made, even so, with injuries of key individuals. The coach also notes he feels "spoilt with options" in key positions, so this time, it is Northampton's young talent that is omitted completely. Given wet conditions expected, choosing an experienced player in the pivotal role is not a major surprise, and the security the All Blacks' back three against kicks is sure face examined often.

Experience plus Flexibility

Then, comes the added importance of experience together with necessity to have a bench player who is able to slot into other positions, especially with a key player not yet fully ready. "It was possible to select either of the three playmakers and explain now talking why they're the best player because I believe they're all excellent," he commented. "George is a very calm presence but also possesses the skill to bring everyone as one driving the team on to the front foot. That's what I'll be looking for him to do this weekend."

Final Outlook

Can it prove enough? The team were defeated three times against the All Blacks last year by a total difference only 10 points, and in terms of converting opportunities, the opposition remain highly effective ever. In that scenario, there must be every chance of a close contest that potentially come down to the last stages. Which is exactly what the England approach are anticipating.