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Picking your top starting XV for a big rugby contest feels increasingly quaint these days, bringing back memories of bygone days such as classic TV shows. To the point where you might almost expect finding the England lineup to face New Zealand this weekend printed with a reversed sequence. Even with the All Blacks visiting, the conventional way for picking players doesn't applies.

Emphasis on the Final Stages

Rather, it's centered on the match ends. This time, Steve Borthwick has chosen six experienced players on the bench versus only four among the starting lineup. At some point during the 50-minute point on Saturday, expect an extensive substitution with fresh players joining the field. As the Springboks' renowned "impact substitutes" have demonstrated, this tactic is extremely tough to counter.

Potential Challenge

However, comes a small issue. While playing the world's top-tier sides, it's crucial to start strongly too. Waiting until the introduction from star substitutes such as Tom Curry or teammates might seem less smart should the All Blacks build a large advantage early on, like versus Scotland at Murrayfield.

But that's today's way for you. And not many know more expert on the subject compared to Borthwick, who sat out several matches on the bench during his career.

Past Examples

Including these occasions, Borthwick mentioned this week, is a notable match versus the All Blacks in Wellington during 2003, when the pack was cut down due to disciplinary issues. At that time, Borthwick and fellow reserves stayed unused throughout the 80 minutes.

On the other hand, in Rome the previous year, the then-coach introduced four experienced leaders around 56 minutes, strategy memorably referred to like "the most illustrious bench since."

Today's Strategy

The current team's bench selection nearly rivals those for "impact player" energy, as the team clearly hoping to catch the opposition during the final 20 minutes. "Every match we have faced against New Zealand has been close late," Borthwick said. "Therefore we need suitable personnel on to finish the game... utilizing that level of know-how on the bench is an important advantage for us."

Spectator Considerations

There will be those spending high prices for seats at the stadium wondering if a discount might be available since games currently largely depend on only 20-odd minutes instead of the full 80 minutes. Joking aside, however, exists a further subtly compelling reason: that Borthwick's confidence in emerging players like Fin Baxter has grown so strong so that England's "strongest" first team is not precisely what many fans might assume.

Picking Choices

If this makes him as "a bold coach" remains a topic he's is minded to talk about – "I don't go for tags... I aim to select the strongest team possible to get the results" – yet England's current run with nine victories in a row has strengthened the view that Test the sport is increasingly an entire squad effort.

"I think every player recognizes this is a collective effort. All the individuals in camp assisting us prepare each contribute. This type of unselfish attitude has not necessarily existed present with past squads. That was different during my time as a player."

Tough Judgments

Several delicate choices have had to occur, even so, due to the absence of key players. The coach additionally notes that "blessed for choice" in key positions, so on this occasion, it is one club's Fin Smith who is omitted entirely. Considering wet weather forecast, choosing an experienced player in the pivotal role is not a major shock, and the security the All Blacks' defense against kicks is sure face tested frequently.

Know-How and Flexibility

Then, there is the added importance of experience and necessity for substitute player who can slot into the back three, especially as a key player not yet fully fit. "I could have select any of the three playmakers then explain here saying why they're the right player because I believe they're all excellent," he said. "George is a very calm presence but also has the ability to bring the team together and [put] them on to the front foot. It's exactly what looking for from him to do on Saturday."

Closing Thoughts

Can it all be enough? England were defeated three times against the All Blacks last year with a combined difference of just 10 points, and in terms of taking opportunities, Scott Robertson's side are as sharp ever. In that scenario, it's likely every chance of an intense contest which potentially boil down to the last 20 minutes. That's clearly what the England setup are anticipating.