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Choosing your strongest lineup in a major match game feels increasingly old-fashioned today, evoking memories of bygone days like classic TV shows. So much so that one could almost anticipate finding this home team selection to face New Zealand this weekend printed in a reversed order. Despite the All Blacks in town, this conventional way of picking the team no longer applies.

Emphasis on the Endgame

Rather, it's centered on the match finishes. This time, the coach has chosen six experienced players for the bench compared to only four among the starting lineup. Around during the 50-minute mark this weekend, expect an extensive change with new talent entering the field. As the Springboks' renowned "Bomb Squad" have demonstrated, this tactic can be very difficult for opponents.

Potential Challenge

But, comes a small snag. While playing one of the globe's second-best sides, it is crucial to start strongly as well. Waiting for the arrival of star substitutes like Ellis Genge or teammates might appear not so brilliant if New Zealand build a large lead by halftime, as they did against Scotland at Murrayfield.

But this is the modern way for you. And not many are more expert on this topic compared to the England coach, as he spent multiple matches on the bench during his career.

Historical Examples

Among these matches, Borthwick recalled this week, is the famous match against the All Blacks abroad during 2003, where England's forwards was reduced down due to disciplinary issues. Even then, he and fellow reserves remained unused for the entire 80 minutes.

Conversely, in Rome earlier, the then-coach brought on multiple experienced leaders after 56 minutes, a move memorably referred to as "the most illustrious substitutes ever."

Today's Plan

This team's substitute selection nearly matches those for "Big Dog" vibes, with England obviously aiming to overtake New Zealand during the last 20 minutes. "Each match we've faced versus them has gone late," Borthwick said. "Therefore it's crucial the right players on to finish strongly... having that level of know-how on the bench is a key asset for the team."

Fan Considerations

Some those spending premium prices for tickets this weekend questioning whether a discount could be available since matches now effectively depend on just 20-odd stages instead of the full 80 minutes. Joking aside, though, there is another quietly compelling reason: which is Borthwick's confidence toward younger players such as Joe Heyes has becoming so deep that England's "best" first lineup is not precisely as casual supporters might assume.

Picking Choices

If that qualifies Borthwick as "a bold selector" is not something he is minded to discuss – "I'm not go for tags... I aim to select the strongest team possible to get success" – yet the team's current streak of nine victories consecutively has reinforced the view how Test rugby is increasingly a 23-man effort.

"I think each member recognizes that it's a team effort. The 36 individuals here assisting the team prepare each play a part. This type of unselfish mindset hasn't necessarily been the case with England team. That was different during my time as a player."

Delicate Decisions

Some difficult judgments are having to be made, even so, with the absence of key individuals. Borthwick also says he feels "spoilt with options" at fly-half, so this time, the decision Northampton's Fin Smith who is omitted entirely. Considering wet conditions expected, the selection an experienced player at No 10 is not a major shock, and ability of New Zealand's back three against kicks will likely face examined often.

Experience plus Flexibility

Then, comes the added value of seasoned players together with necessity for a bench option who can slot into other positions, especially with another player not yet fully ready. "I could have picked either of the three fly-halves and explain here talking why they're the best player since I believe each one is excellent," Borthwick said. "George provides very calm leader but also has the skill to bring the team together driving the team on to attack. That's what I'll be expecting from him to deliver this weekend."

Final Thoughts

Will it prove sufficient? England lost in all meetings by New Zealand previously by a total difference of just a small amount, while in terms of converting chances, the opposition are as sharp ever. Given this scenario, it's likely every chance of an intense contest which could boil down to the final 20 minutes. Which is clearly what the England approach are anticipating.