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Choosing the strongest lineup in a big rugby contest feels increasingly quaint today, bringing back thoughts of different times like classic TV shows. To the point that one could almost expect finding this England lineup to face New Zealand this weekend printed in a reversed order. Even with the All Blacks in town, this traditional method of choosing the team no longer applies.

Focus on the Final Stages

Rather, it's all about how the game concludes. This time, Steve Borthwick opted to selected six experienced players for the substitutes versus only four in the first XV. At some point the 50-minute mark on Saturday, there will be a mass substitution with fresh players entering the field. As South Africa's renowned "impact substitutes" has demonstrated, such a approach is extremely difficult to counter.

Potential Challenge

However, there is one small issue. When playing the world's top-tier teams, it's vital to begin strongly as well. Holding out for the introduction of key substitutes like Tom Curry or teammates might seem not so smart if the All Blacks take a large advantage by halftime, like versus Scotland at Murrayfield.

But this is the modern approach for you. And few know more expert about this topic than the England coach, who spent several matches on the bench in his career.

Historical Context

Including these occasions, he recalled this week, was a notable Test versus New Zealand abroad during 2003, where the pack were reduced down because of yellow cards. Even then, he along with other substitutes remained on the sidelines throughout the 80 minutes.

Conversely, during a match in Italy the previous year, the then-coach introduced multiple experienced leaders after the hour mark, strategy memorably referred to as "the most illustrious substitutes ever."

Today's Plan

The current England substitute choices almost matches those in terms of "impact player" vibes, as England obviously aiming to overtake New Zealand in the last 20 minutes. "Each match we have played against them has gone late," Borthwick stated. "Therefore it's crucial suitable players on to close out the game... having such a degree of know-how on the bench is also an important advantage for the team."

Fan Considerations

Some fans paying premium rates for seats at the stadium wondering if reduced pricing could be offered since games now effectively depend around only the final minutes instead of the entire 80 minutes. Seriously, however, there is another quietly persuasive explanation: that the coach's trust in emerging players such as Fin Baxter has becoming sufficiently deep so that England's "strongest" starting team is not exactly what many fans would assume.

Selection Decisions

Whether this makes him as "a bold selector" remains not something he's inclined to discuss – "I'm not into tags... I aim and pick the best team possible to get success" – but the team's ongoing streak of nine victories consecutively has reinforced his belief how Test rugby is increasingly an entire squad effort.

"In my view every member recognizes that it's a team endeavor. The 36 players in camp assisting the team prepare all contribute. That kind of unselfish attitude has not always existed the case with past squads. It was not my experience when I was a player."

Tough Judgments

Some difficult choices have had to occur, however, with the absence of key individuals. Borthwick additionally notes that "blessed with options" at fly-half, and on this occasion, the decision one club's Fin Smith that misses out entirely. Given the damp weather forecast, the selection of George Ford at No 10 is hardly a major shock, and ability of New Zealand's back three against high balls will likely face tested often.

Experience and Versatility

Then, comes the added importance of seasoned players and the need for a bench option who is able to fill in other positions, particularly with another individual still completely fit. "It was possible to picked either of the three fly-halves and be sat here saying why each is the right choice since I believe each one is excellent," he commented. "George provides composed presence but also has the skill to bring everyone as one driving them on to attack. It's exactly what expecting from him to deliver on Saturday."

Closing Outlook

Can it all be sufficient? England lost three times by the All Blacks previously by a total margin only 10 points, and in terms of converting opportunities, the opposition remain as sharp ever. In that scenario, there must be a strong possibility of a close contest that could come down to the final stages. That's clearly what the England approach is anticipating.