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Picking your strongest lineup in a important rugby contest feels increasingly old-fashioned nowadays, bringing back memories of past eras such as classic TV shows. To the point that you could nearly expect to see this England lineup against the All Blacks on Saturday printed in a jumbled sequence. Even with New Zealand in town, the conventional way for choosing players no longer applies.

Emphasis on the Final Stages

Rather, it's all about the game ends. On this occasion, Steve Borthwick has selected multiple experienced players for the bench versus only a few in the first XV. Around during the 50-minute point on Saturday, expect an extensive substitution involving fresh players entering play. Similar to South Africa's famous "Bomb Squad" have demonstrated, such a approach can be very difficult for opponents.

Possible Pitfall

However, there is one minor issue. When playing one of the globe's second-best teams, it's crucial to start strongly too. Waiting until the arrival from star substitutes like Tom Curry or others might appear not so smart if New Zealand build a significant advantage early on, like against Scotland last week.

But this is the modern way in rugby. And few are more knowledgeable on the subject than the England coach, who spent multiple games on the substitute in his career.

Past Examples

Among these occasions, he recalled this week, was a notable match versus New Zealand in Wellington back in 2003, where England's pack were cut down because of yellow cards. Even then, Borthwick along with other substitutes remained unused throughout the 80 minutes.

Conversely, in Rome earlier, the then-coach brought on multiple experienced leaders around 56 minutes, strategy famously described as "an exceptionally strong bench ever."

Today's Plan

This team's substitute selection nearly rivals those for "impact player" vibes, with the team obviously aiming to overtake New Zealand during the last quarter. "Every game we have faced versus New Zealand has been close toward the end," the coach stated. "Therefore it's crucial the right players available to finish strongly... utilizing such a degree of know-how on the bench is an important asset for us."

Fan Considerations

There will be those paying premium rates on tickets this weekend questioning if a discount might be available if matches now largely depend on just the final minutes rather than the entire 80 minutes. Seriously, though, exists another subtly persuasive explanation: that Borthwick's confidence toward emerging talents such as Joe Heyes is grown so strong that England's "best" starting team may not be exactly what many fans might think.

Selection Choices

If that qualifies him to be "a bold selector" remains a topic he is minded to talk about – "I'm not go for labels... I try and pick the best team possible to get success" – yet England's ongoing run with nine victories consecutively has strengthened the view that international the sport has become more of a 23-man game.

"In my view each player understands this is a team endeavor. The 36 individuals in camp helping us get ready all contribute. This type of unselfish attitude has not necessarily existed present with past squads. That was not my experience during my time as a player."

Tough Judgments

Some difficult judgments have had to occur, however, due to the absence of certain individuals. The coach also says he feels "spoilt with options" in key positions, 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, while ability of New Zealand's back three against high balls is sure face examined frequently.

Know-How and Versatility

Additionally, comes the extra value of experience together with the need to have substitute option that is able to slot into other positions, particularly with another individual still completely ready. "I could have picked any of the three playmakers then explain here talking about how they're the best player since I think they're all excellent," he said. "George is a composed leader but also has the skill to bring everyone together driving the team on to attack. It's what I'll be expecting from him to deliver this weekend."

Final Outlook

Can it all be enough? The team were defeated in all meetings against New Zealand previously by a total difference only 10 points, while regarding taking chances, Scott Robertson's side remain as sharp ever. In that event, it's likely every chance of an intense contest which potentially come down to the final stages. That's exactly what this approach is anticipating.