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Selecting your top lineup in a major match contest feels increasingly quaint these days, evoking memories of past eras such as vintage television. So much so that one could almost anticipate finding the home team selection against the All Blacks this weekend printed in a reversed sequence. Even with the All Blacks visiting, the conventional method for picking players doesn't hold true.

Focus on the Endgame

Instead, it's all about the game ends. This time, Steve Borthwick opted to chosen six experienced players on the substitutes compared to only a few among the starting lineup. Around during the second half mark on Saturday, there will be an extensive change with new players joining play. Similar to the Springboks' renowned "impact substitutes" has demonstrated, such a tactic is very tough for opponents.

Possible Pitfall

However, comes one small issue. When facing the world's second-best sides, it is vital to begin well too. Waiting until the arrival from key replacements such as Tom Curry and teammates could appear less brilliant if the All Blacks build a large advantage by halftime, as they did versus Scotland at Murrayfield.

But this is the modern way in rugby. Furthermore few are more knowledgeable about this topic than the England coach, as he spent several matches on the substitute in his playing days.

Past Context

Among those matches, Borthwick recalled recently, was a notable match versus New Zealand abroad during 2003, when England's pack was reduced down because of disciplinary issues. At that time, Borthwick along with other substitutes remained unused throughout the match.

Conversely, during a match in Italy the previous year, the then-coach brought on multiple England captains after 56 minutes, a move memorably described as "an exceptionally strong substitutes since."

Today's Plan

This England substitute choices nearly matches that for "impact player" vibes, with England clearly hoping to overtake New Zealand during the final quarter. "Every game we've played against New Zealand has been close toward the end," Borthwick said. "Therefore it's crucial the right players on to close out the game... having that level of experience among substitutes is an important asset for the team."

Fan Considerations

There will be those spending premium rates on tickets this weekend wondering if reduced pricing could be available if matches currently effectively hinge on only 20-odd minutes rather than the entire match. Seriously, though, there is another quietly compelling explanation: that Borthwick's confidence in younger players such as Fin Baxter is becoming sufficiently deep that England's "best" starting lineup is not precisely what many supporters would assume.

Selection Decisions

Whether that qualifies Borthwick as "an adventurous coach" is a topic he's is minded to talk about – "I'm not into labels... I try to select the best team we possibly can to get the results" – but England's current streak with nine Test wins consecutively has strengthened the view how Test rugby is increasingly an entire squad effort.

"I think every player understands that it's a team effort. The 36 individuals in camp helping the team get ready each contribute. This type of selfless mindset hasn't necessarily been the case in an England team. That was not my experience when I was a player."

Delicate Decisions

Some delicate choices have had to occur, even so, due to injuries of certain players. Borthwick also notes that "spoilt with options" in key positions, and on this occasion, it is Northampton's young talent who misses out completely. Considering wet conditions expected, choosing an experienced player at No 10 is hardly a major surprise, while ability the All Blacks' defense under high balls is sure face tested frequently.

Know-How and Versatility

Then, comes the added value of experience and necessity to have substitute player who can slot into the back three, particularly as another individual not yet fully fit. "I could have select either of the available fly-halves then be sat here saying about how they're the best choice because I believe each one is excellent," Borthwick said. "He provides composed leader but also possesses the ability to unite the team together and [put] them onto the front foot. That's what I'll be expecting from him to deliver on Saturday."

Closing Thoughts

Can it all be sufficient? England lost in all meetings against New Zealand previously by a total margin of just a small amount, and in terms of taking opportunities, the opposition remain highly effective as any. Given this scenario, it's likely a strong possibility of an intense contest that potentially boil down to the last 20 minutes. That's clearly what this setup are anticipating.