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Selecting your best lineup in a major match contest feels more and more outdated nowadays, evoking thoughts of past eras like classic TV shows. To the point where you might almost expect finding the England lineup against the All Blacks this weekend displayed with a jumbled sequence. Despite New Zealand visiting, the traditional method for picking players doesn't applies.

Focus on the Endgame

Instead, it's centered on how the match finishes. On this occasion, Steve Borthwick has selected multiple experienced players for the bench versus just a few among the starting lineup. At some point the 50-minute point this weekend, expect a mass substitution involving new talent joining the field. Similar to the Springboks' renowned "impact substitutes" have shown, such a tactic is very difficult for opponents.

Potential Challenge

But, there is one minor issue. While facing the world's second-best sides, it's essential to begin strongly too. Waiting for the introduction of key substitutes such as Ellis Genge and others might appear less brilliant if the All Blacks build a significant lead by halftime, as they did versus Scotland at Murrayfield.

Yet that's today's way for you. Furthermore few are more expert on this topic compared to the England coach, who sat out multiple games on the bench during his playing days.

Past Context

Including those occasions, Borthwick recalled recently, is the famous Test versus the All Blacks in Wellington during 2003, when the pack were reduced to six due to disciplinary issues. At that time, Borthwick along with other substitutes remained on the sidelines for the entire match.

Conversely, during a match in Italy earlier, Clive Woodward introduced multiple experienced leaders after 56 minutes, a move famously described as "an exceptionally strong bench ever."

Today's Plan

The current England bench choices nearly rivals that in terms of "impact player" energy, with the team obviously hoping to overtake New Zealand during the final quarter. "Every match we have faced against them has gone late," the coach stated. "Therefore we need suitable players available to finish the game... having that level of experience on the bench is a key asset for us."

Spectator Considerations

There will be those paying high prices on seats at the stadium questioning whether a discount might be offered if games now effectively hinge around only the final stages instead of the full 80 minutes. Seriously, however, exists another quietly persuasive explanation: that the coach's trust in emerging players like Joe Heyes is grown so deep so that England's "best" first lineup may not be exactly what many supporters would assume.

Picking Decisions

Whether that qualifies Borthwick to be "an adventurous selector" remains not something he's is minded to talk about – "I don't into tags... I try to select the strongest team possible for success" – yet England's ongoing run of nine Test wins consecutively has reinforced his belief that international rugby has become more of a 23-man effort.

"I think every player recognizes that it's a collective effort. The 36 individuals here helping us prepare all play a part. This type of selfless attitude has not necessarily been present with England team. It was different when I was playing."

Tough Judgments

Some delicate choices are having to be made, however, due to the absence of certain players. Borthwick also notes he feels "blessed for choice" at fly-half, so on this occasion, it is one club's Fin Smith that is omitted completely. Considering wet conditions expected, the selection of George Ford in the pivotal role is not a major surprise, and ability the All Blacks' back three against high balls will likely to be examined frequently.

Know-How and Versatility

Then, there is the added value of experience and necessity for a bench option that is able to fill in other positions, especially as a key individual not yet fully ready. "It was possible to picked either of the three playmakers and be sat here talking about how each is the best choice since I think each one is terrific," Borthwick commented. "George is a very calm presence and has the ability to unite everyone together driving the team on to the front foot. That's exactly what expecting from him to deliver this weekend."

Closing Thoughts

Can it prove sufficient? England lost three times by New Zealand last year with a combined difference of just 10 points, and regarding converting opportunities, the opposition are highly effective ever. In that event, it's likely a strong possibility of an intense battle that could come down to the last stages. That's clearly what the England setup are expecting.