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Choosing your best lineup in a big rugby contest feels more and more outdated nowadays, evoking thoughts of different times like classic TV shows. So much so where one could almost expect finding the England lineup against the All Blacks this weekend displayed in a reversed order. Despite the All Blacks in town, the traditional way of picking the team no longer hold true.

Focus on the Final Stages

Rather, it's all about the game ends. On this occasion, the coach opted to chosen six British & Irish Lions for the substitutes versus only a few among the first XV. At some point during the 50-minute mark on Saturday, expect an extensive substitution with fresh players joining the field. As South Africa's renowned "impact substitutes" have demonstrated, such a approach is very tough to counter.

Potential Pitfall

But, comes a minor snag. When facing one of the globe's top-tier sides, it's vital to begin well too. Holding out until the introduction from key replacements such as Tom Curry or teammates could appear not so smart should New Zealand take a large lead by halftime, like versus the Scots last week.

But this is the modern way in rugby. And not many are more knowledgeable on this topic than Borthwick, who spent multiple matches on the bench in his playing days.

Historical Context

Among these matches, he recalled recently, is the famous Test against the All Blacks abroad during 2003, when England's forwards were cut down because of yellow cards. Even then, he along with fellow reserves stayed on the sidelines throughout the 80 minutes.

On the other hand, in Rome the previous year, the then-coach introduced four experienced leaders after the hour mark, a move famously referred to like "an exceptionally strong substitutes ever."

Today's Strategy

This team's substitute choices almost rivals that for "Big Dog" vibes, as England clearly aiming to catch New Zealand during the final quarter. "Each match we have faced against them has been close toward the end," Borthwick said. "Therefore it's crucial the right personnel available to close out strongly... having that level of know-how on the bench is an important advantage for the team."

Fan Perspective

Some those paying high prices on tickets at the stadium wondering if a discount could be available if games now effectively depend on just 20-odd stages instead of the full 80 minutes. Joking aside, however, exists another quietly compelling explanation: which is the coach's confidence in younger talents such as Fin Baxter is grown so strong that England's "best" starting team is not exactly as casual fans would assume.

Picking Choices

If this makes him to be "an adventurous selector" is a topic he's inclined to talk about – "I'm not into labels... I aim and pick the best team possible for success" – yet England's ongoing streak of nine Test wins consecutively has strengthened the view that Test the sport is increasingly an entire squad effort.

"In my view every player recognizes that it's a team endeavor. All the players in camp assisting us prepare all contribute. That kind of unselfish attitude hasn't necessarily been the case in an past squads. It was different during my time as a player."

Delicate Judgments

Some delicate choices are having to be made, however, with the absence of certain players. The coach also notes that "blessed for choice" at fly-half, so this time, it is one club's Fin Smith who is omitted completely. Considering the damp conditions expected, the selection of George Ford at No 10 is hardly a huge surprise, while ability the All Blacks' back three against kicks is sure face examined frequently.

Know-How and Flexibility

Additionally, there is the added importance of seasoned players and necessity for a bench player that can slot into the back three, particularly as another individual not yet completely fit. "It was possible to select either of the available playmakers and explain now talking about how each is the right choice since I believe each one is terrific," he said. "George is a composed presence and possesses the skill to bring everyone together driving the team on to attack. It's exactly what expecting from him to deliver on Saturday."

Closing Outlook

Can it prove sufficient? The team were defeated three times against the All Blacks previously with a combined margin only 10 points, while regarding converting opportunities, the opposition remain highly effective as any. Given this event, it's likely every chance of a close contest which could boil down to the last stages. Which is exactly what the England setup is anticipating.