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Picking your top lineup in a big match contest seems more and more old-fashioned these days, bringing back memories of bygone days such as classic TV shows. So much so where you could almost expect finding this England lineup against New Zealand this weekend printed with a reversed order. Despite New Zealand in town, this conventional way for choosing the team no longer hold true.

Emphasis on the Final Stages

Rather, the focus is all about how the game finishes. This time, the coach has selected multiple experienced players for the bench compared to only four among the first XV. At some point during the second half point on Saturday, expect a mass change with new players entering the field. Similar to the Springboks' famous "Bomb Squad" has shown, this tactic is extremely difficult for opponents.

Potential Pitfall

However, there is a minor issue. When facing the world's top-tier teams, it is vital to start strongly too. Holding out for the arrival of key replacements such as Ellis Genge and teammates could seem less brilliant should the All Blacks take a significant advantage by halftime, like versus the Scots last week.

Yet that's today's approach for you. And not many are more expert on the subject compared to Borthwick, who spent multiple games on the substitute in his career.

Historical Examples

Including those occasions, Borthwick mentioned this week, is the famous Test versus the All Blacks in Wellington during 2003, where England's forwards was cut to six because of disciplinary issues. At that time, Borthwick along with other substitutes remained unused throughout the match.

On the other hand, in Rome earlier, Clive Woodward brought on four experienced leaders around the hour mark, strategy famously referred to like "the most illustrious bench ever."

Current Plan

The current team's bench choices almost matches those for "Big Dog" vibes, with the team clearly hoping to catch New Zealand in the last 20 minutes. "Each match we have faced against them has gone late," the coach stated. "So it's crucial the right personnel on to finish strongly... having that level of know-how among substitutes is also a key advantage for the team."

Spectator Considerations

There will be those spending premium prices for seats this weekend questioning if a discount could be offered if matches now largely hinge around just the final minutes instead of the full match. Joking aside, though, there is another subtly persuasive explanation: which is the coach's confidence in younger players like Joe Heyes has grown sufficiently deep that the "strongest" starting team is not exactly as many fans would think.

Selection Choices

If that qualifies Borthwick as "an adventurous selector" is not something he's is minded to discuss – "I'm not go for tags... I try to select the best squad we possibly can to get the results" – yet the team's ongoing streak with nine Test wins consecutively has reinforced his belief that international the sport has become more of an entire squad game.

"In my view each member recognizes this is a collective effort. All the players in camp assisting the team prepare all contribute. This type of selfless attitude has not necessarily existed the case in an past squads. That was different during my time as a player."

Delicate Judgments

Several difficult choices have had to occur, however, with injuries of certain individuals. Borthwick also notes he feels "spoilt for choice" at fly-half, and on this occasion, the decision one club's young talent who misses out entirely. Considering the damp conditions expected, choosing an experienced player in the pivotal role is not a huge surprise, and ability of New Zealand's defense under high balls is sure to be tested often.

Know-How and Flexibility

Then, there is the added value of seasoned players together with the need to have substitute option that is able to fill in other positions, especially as another individual still completely ready. "I could have select either of the three playmakers then explain now saying about how they're the best player since I think they're all terrific," he said. "He is a composed leader but also has the skill to bring everyone together driving them onto the front foot. It's what I'll be looking for him to do this weekend."

Closing Thoughts

Will it prove enough? England were defeated three times against New Zealand previously by a total difference only 10 points, and regarding converting opportunities, Scott Robertson's side remain highly effective ever. Given this event, there must be every chance of an intense battle which potentially boil down to the last 20 minutes. Which is exactly what this setup is anticipating.