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Selecting the best starting XV in a big match contest seems increasingly quaint nowadays, bringing back memories of past eras like classic TV shows. So much so where one could almost anticipate to see this home team lineup against the All Blacks this weekend displayed with a reversed sequence. Even with New Zealand in town, the traditional way of picking the team doesn't applies.

Emphasis on the Endgame

Rather, the focus is centered on the match finishes. This time, Steve Borthwick has selected six British & Irish Lions for the substitutes compared to just a few in the starting lineup. At some point the second half point this weekend, there will be an extensive substitution involving new players entering play. As the Springboks' renowned "impact substitutes" have demonstrated, such a approach is extremely tough to counter.

Potential Pitfall

But, there is one minor snag. When playing one of the globe's second-best teams, it is essential to begin strongly too. Holding out for the introduction of key replacements such as Ellis Genge and teammates might appear less smart should the All Blacks take a large advantage early on, like versus the Scots at Murrayfield.

Yet this is today's approach for you. And not many know more knowledgeable about this topic compared to Borthwick, as he spent several matches as an unused bench in his playing days.

Past Context

Including those matches, he mentioned this week, was the famous Test versus New Zealand in Wellington during 2003, where the forwards was cut to six due to disciplinary issues. Even then, he along with other reserves stayed unused throughout the 80 minutes.

Conversely, in Rome earlier, Clive Woodward brought on four experienced leaders around 56 minutes, strategy memorably described like "the most illustrious bench ever."

Current Plan

This team's substitute choices nearly matches that for "Big Dog" energy, with England obviously aiming to overtake the opposition during the last 20 minutes. "Each game we have faced against them has gone toward the end," the coach stated. "Therefore it's crucial the right players on to finish strongly... utilizing such a degree of know-how on the bench is also a key asset for us."

Spectator Perspective

There will be those paying high prices for seats this weekend wondering if a discount might be offered since games now largely hinge around just the final minutes instead of the full 80 minutes. Joking aside, though, there is a further quietly compelling explanation: that Borthwick's confidence in emerging players such as Joe Heyes has grown so strong that the "best" starting team is not exactly what many fans would think.

Selection Choices

If that qualifies Borthwick as "an adventurous selector" is not something he's is minded to discuss – "I'm not into labels... I aim and pick the strongest squad possible for success" – yet England's current streak of nine Test wins in a row has reinforced the view that international rugby has become increasingly a 23-man game.

"In my view each player understands this is a team effort. The 36 individuals in camp helping us prepare each contribute. This type of selfless mindset hasn't necessarily been present in an England team. That was not my experience when I was playing."

Tough Decisions

Some delicate judgments have had to occur, even so, due to the absence of key players. Borthwick additionally says he feels "blessed for choice" in key positions, and this time, the decision one club's Fin Smith that misses out entirely. Considering the damp weather forecast, the selection of George Ford at No 10 is hardly a huge surprise, while ability the All Blacks' back three under high balls is sure face examined often.

Know-How and Flexibility

Then, comes the extra importance of seasoned players and the need for a bench player who is able to fill in the back three, especially as a key individual still fully ready. "It was possible to select either of the available fly-halves then explain now saying about how each is the best choice since I think they're all excellent," Borthwick said. "He is a very calm presence and possesses the skill to unite the team together driving the team on to the front foot. It's what I'll be looking for him to do this weekend."

Final Thoughts

Can it prove enough? The team were defeated three times against New Zealand last year with a combined difference of just 10 points, while in terms of converting chances, the opposition remain as sharp ever. Given this scenario, there must be a strong possibility of a close battle which potentially boil down to the final stages. Which is exactly what this approach is anticipating.