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Selecting the strongest starting XV for a big rugby game appears increasingly outdated nowadays, evoking thoughts of past eras like classic TV shows. To the point where one could nearly anticipate to see this home team selection against the All Blacks this weekend printed with a jumbled sequence. Even with the All Blacks in town, this traditional method for picking the team no longer applies.

Emphasis on the Endgame

Rather, the focus is all about how the match concludes. On this occasion, Steve Borthwick has selected six experienced players on the bench versus just four among the first XV. At some point during the 50-minute point this weekend, expect an extensive change with new players joining play. As the Springboks' renowned "Bomb Squad" have shown, such a tactic is very difficult for opponents.

Possible Challenge

But, comes a small snag. While playing one of the globe's second-best sides, it is vital to begin well as well. Holding out for the arrival of star replacements such as Ellis Genge or teammates might appear less smart if the All Blacks build a large advantage by halftime, like versus Scotland at Murrayfield.

Yet this is today's way for you. Furthermore few know more knowledgeable about this topic compared to Borthwick, as he spent multiple games as an unused bench in his career.

Past Examples

Among those matches, Borthwick mentioned recently, was the famous Test versus New Zealand in Wellington during 2003, where the pack were cut down due to yellow cards. Even then, Borthwick and fellow substitutes remained unused for the entire 80 minutes.

Conversely, during a match in Italy earlier, the then-coach brought on multiple experienced leaders around the hour mark, strategy memorably referred to as "an exceptionally strong substitutes ever."

Today's Strategy

The current England substitute selection nearly rivals that in terms of "Big Dog" vibes, as the team clearly aiming to overtake the opposition in the final quarter. "Every game we have faced against them has gone toward the end," the coach said. "Therefore it's crucial suitable players on to finish strongly... utilizing that level of know-how on the bench is a key asset for the team."

Fan Considerations

Some those spending high prices for seats this weekend questioning whether reduced pricing might be available since games now largely depend on just 20-odd stages rather than the full match. Seriously, though, there is a further quietly compelling reason: that the coach's confidence toward younger talents like Fin Baxter is grown sufficiently deep that England's "best" first lineup may not be exactly as casual fans would assume.

Picking Choices

Whether this qualifies Borthwick to be "an adventurous coach" remains a topic he's inclined to talk about – "I don't go for tags... I try and pick the strongest squad we possibly can to get success" – but the team's ongoing streak of nine Test wins consecutively has reinforced his belief how Test the sport has become increasingly an entire squad game.

"In my view each player understands this is a collective effort. All the players here helping us get ready each play a part. This type of selfless mindset hasn't necessarily been present with England team. It was not my experience when I was a player."

Delicate Decisions

Several difficult choices are having to be made, however, with the absence of key individuals. Borthwick also says he feels "blessed for choice" in key positions, and this time, the decision one club's young talent who is omitted entirely. Given the damp weather forecast, the selection of George Ford at No 10 is hardly a huge shock, and the security the All Blacks' back three under high balls is sure to be tested often.

Know-How plus Flexibility

Then, there is the extra importance of seasoned players and necessity to have substitute option who can fill in other positions, especially with a key player still fully fit. "It was possible to picked either of the available fly-halves then explain here talking why they're the best choice because I believe they're all terrific," Borthwick commented. "George provides composed presence but also has the ability to bring everyone as one and [put] them on to attack. That's exactly what expecting him to deliver on Saturday."

Closing Thoughts

Will it prove sufficient? England were defeated in all meetings against the All Blacks previously by a total margin only 10 points, and regarding taking opportunities, Scott Robertson's side remain highly effective ever. In that event, there must be a strong possibility of a close contest that potentially come down to the last stages. That's clearly what the England approach are expecting.