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Picking the top lineup for a major rugby game seems more and more quaint these days, evoking thoughts of past eras such as vintage television. To the point that you might almost expect finding this home team lineup to face New Zealand this weekend displayed with a reversed order. Despite the All Blacks visiting, the traditional way of picking the team no longer applies.

Focus on the Endgame

Rather, it's centered on how the match ends. On this occasion, Steve Borthwick opted to selected multiple experienced players for the bench compared to just four among the starting lineup. Around the second half point on Saturday, expect a mass change involving new players entering play. As South Africa's famous "Bomb Squad" has demonstrated, such a approach is very difficult for opponents.

Possible Challenge

But, there is a small issue. While playing the world's top-tier sides, it is crucial to start well too. Holding out until the introduction from key substitutes like Ellis Genge and teammates might seem not so smart if the All Blacks build a large advantage early on, as they did versus Scotland last week.

But that's today's way in rugby. And not many know more expert on this topic than the England coach, who spent several games on the substitute during his playing days.

Historical Context

Among these occasions, he recalled recently, is the famous match versus New Zealand abroad back in 2003, when the forwards were reduced to six because of yellow cards. At that time, Borthwick and other reserves remained on the sidelines for the entire 80 minutes.

On the other hand, during a match in Italy earlier, Clive Woodward introduced four England captains after 56 minutes, a move memorably described like "the most illustrious bench since."

Today's Strategy

This team's bench choices nearly rivals those for "impact player" energy, with the team obviously aiming to catch the opposition in the last quarter. "Each match we've faced against New Zealand has been close late," Borthwick said. "So we need suitable players available to finish the game... having that level of know-how on the bench is a key advantage for us."

Spectator Considerations

Some fans paying premium rates for seats at the stadium wondering whether reduced pricing might be offered since games currently effectively hinge around only the final stages instead of the full match. Seriously, however, exists another quietly persuasive reason: that Borthwick's trust toward younger players such as Joe Heyes has becoming so deep that the "strongest" first team is not exactly what casual supporters might assume.

Selection Decisions

If that qualifies him to be "a bold selector" is not something he's is minded to discuss – "I don't go for tags... I aim and pick the strongest team we possibly can for the results" – but the team's current streak of nine victories consecutively has strengthened the view that international rugby is more of an entire squad effort.

"I think each player recognizes that it's a team effort. All the individuals in camp assisting us get ready each contribute. This type of unselfish attitude hasn't necessarily been present in an past squads. That was different during my time as a player."

Tough Judgments

Some delicate judgments have had to be made, even so, due to injuries of certain individuals. The coach also says that "spoilt with options" at fly-half, and on this occasion, the decision one club's Fin Smith who misses out entirely. Considering wet weather forecast, choosing an experienced player in the pivotal role is not a major surprise, while the security of New Zealand's back three against high balls is sure face tested frequently.

Experience and Flexibility

Then, there is the extra importance of experience and the need to have a bench option who can fill in the back three, particularly as a key individual not yet completely fit. "It was possible to picked either of the three playmakers then be sat now talking about how each is the right choice since I think each one is terrific," Borthwick said. "He is a very calm presence but also has the skill to bring the team together driving the team onto the front foot. That's what I'll be expecting him to deliver this weekend."

Final Outlook

Will it prove enough? England lost in all meetings against New Zealand previously by a total margin of just a small amount, while regarding taking opportunities, Scott Robertson's side remain as sharp ever. In that scenario, it's likely every chance of a close battle which potentially boil down to the last stages. That's clearly what this setup is anticipating.