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Choosing the top starting XV in a important rugby game feels more and more quaint these days, bringing back thoughts of bygone days such as vintage television. So much so where one could nearly expect to see the England selection against New Zealand this weekend displayed with a reversed sequence. Even with the All Blacks in town, this traditional way for picking the team no longer applies.

Emphasis on the Final Stages

Instead, it's centered on the match finishes. This time, Steve Borthwick opted to selected multiple British & Irish Lions on the substitutes versus only four in the first XV. Around the 50-minute point this weekend, there will be an extensive substitution involving new players joining play. As the Springboks' renowned "impact substitutes" have demonstrated, this tactic is very difficult to counter.

Potential Challenge

But, there is a minor issue. When playing the world's second-best sides, it is vital to start strongly as well. Waiting for the introduction of star substitutes like Tom Curry or teammates might seem not so smart if New Zealand build a significant advantage early on, as they did versus Scotland at Murrayfield.

But this is today's approach in rugby. And few are more knowledgeable about this topic compared to Borthwick, as he sat out several matches on the substitute during his playing days.

Historical Examples

Among these occasions, Borthwick mentioned recently, is a notable Test against New Zealand in Wellington back in 2003, when England's forwards were reduced down because of disciplinary issues. At that time, he along with other substitutes stayed on the sidelines throughout the match.

On the other hand, in Rome earlier, the then-coach introduced four England captains after 56 minutes, strategy famously referred to as "the most illustrious substitutes ever."

Today's Plan

The current team's substitute selection nearly matches that in terms of "impact player" energy, as England obviously hoping to overtake New Zealand in the final 20 minutes. "Every match we've faced versus New Zealand has been close late," the coach said. "So we need the right personnel available to close out the game... having such a degree of know-how on the bench is a key asset for the team."

Spectator Considerations

There will be those paying premium rates for tickets at the stadium wondering whether reduced pricing might be offered since games currently largely hinge on just the final minutes rather than the full match. Joking aside, though, exists a further subtly persuasive explanation: that Borthwick's trust in younger players like Joe Heyes has grown so strong that England's "strongest" starting team may not be exactly as casual fans might assume.

Selection Decisions

Whether that makes him to be "a bold selector" remains a topic he's inclined to talk about – "I'm not go for labels... I aim and pick the strongest team possible to get the results" – but the team's current run with nine victories consecutively has strengthened the view how Test the sport has become increasingly a 23-man effort.

"I think every member recognizes this is a team effort. The 36 players in camp helping the team get ready all play a part. This type of unselfish attitude hasn't necessarily been the case in an past squads. That was not my experience when I was playing."

Tough Judgments

Some difficult judgments have had to be made, however, with injuries of key individuals. Borthwick additionally notes that "blessed for choice" in key positions, and on this occasion, the decision one club's young talent that is omitted completely. Considering the damp conditions expected, choosing of George Ford in the pivotal role is not a major shock, and ability of New Zealand's defense against kicks is sure to be tested often.

Experience plus Versatility

Additionally, there is the extra importance of seasoned players and the need to have a bench player that can fill in other positions, particularly with a key individual not yet completely ready. "It was possible to picked any of the three fly-halves then explain now talking about how they're the best choice because I believe they're all terrific," he commented. "He provides very calm presence but also possesses the skill to bring the team as one driving the team onto attack. It's what I'll be expecting from him to deliver this weekend."

Closing Thoughts

Will it prove sufficient? The team lost in all meetings by the All Blacks previously by a total margin only 10 points, while regarding converting opportunities, Scott Robertson's side remain as sharp as any. In that scenario, there must be every chance of an intense battle which potentially come down to the final stages. That's clearly what the England setup is expecting.