England's Team Strategy Overhaul: Engaging in the Modern Tactics Against the All Blacks

Selecting the strongest starting XV in a big match game feels increasingly old-fashioned these days, evoking thoughts of bygone days such as vintage television. So much so that you could almost expect to see the home team selection against the All Blacks this weekend displayed in a jumbled sequence. Despite the All Blacks visiting, the conventional method of picking the team no longer hold true.

Focus on the Final Stages

Rather, it's centered on the game concludes. On this occasion, Steve Borthwick has selected six British & Irish Lions on the bench versus only four among the first XV. At some point during the second half mark this weekend, there will be a mass substitution involving new talent entering the field. Similar to South Africa's renowned "Bomb Squad" have demonstrated, this tactic is extremely difficult to counter.

Potential Challenge

However, comes one small snag. While facing the world's top-tier sides, it's essential to begin strongly too. Holding out until the introduction from key replacements such as Tom Curry and teammates could seem less brilliant should the All Blacks take a large advantage by halftime, as they did versus Scotland last week.

But this is the modern approach in rugby. And not many know more expert on this topic compared to Borthwick, as he sat out several games on the bench in his playing days.

Past Context

Including these occasions, Borthwick mentioned this week, was the famous Test versus the All Blacks abroad back in 2003, where England's pack was cut to six due to yellow cards. At that time, he along with other substitutes stayed unused for the entire 80 minutes.

On the other hand, in Rome the previous year, the then-coach brought on multiple experienced leaders after the hour mark, strategy famously referred to as "the most illustrious substitutes ever."

Current Plan

This team's substitute choices nearly matches that for "impact player" energy, as the team obviously hoping to catch the opposition during the last quarter. "Each game we've played against them has been close late," Borthwick said. "Therefore it's crucial suitable players on to close out strongly... having such a degree of know-how among substitutes is also a key asset for us."

Fan Considerations

There will be fans spending high rates on tickets this weekend wondering whether reduced pricing could be available if games currently largely depend around only the final minutes instead of the full match. Joking aside, however, there is another subtly compelling explanation: which is Borthwick's confidence toward younger talents such as Fin Baxter is grown so deep so that the "strongest" starting lineup may not be exactly what many supporters might think.

Selection Decisions

If this qualifies Borthwick as "an adventurous coach" is a topic he's inclined to discuss – "I'm not into labels... I aim to select the best squad we possibly can to get the results" – yet the team's current run with nine Test wins in a row has reinforced his belief how Test the sport has become more of an entire squad effort.

"In my view every player recognizes this is a team effort. All the individuals here assisting the team prepare all contribute. This type of unselfish attitude has not always existed present in an England team. It was different when I was a player."

Tough Decisions

Several delicate choices are having to be made, even so, with the absence of certain individuals. Borthwick additionally says he feels "blessed with options" in key positions, so on this occasion, it is one club's Fin Smith that misses out completely. Given the damp weather forecast, choosing an experienced player in the pivotal role is not a huge surprise, while ability of New Zealand's back three under high balls will likely face examined often.

Know-How plus Flexibility

Then, comes the extra importance of seasoned players and the need for a bench player who can fill in the back three, especially as a key individual still fully fit. "I could have picked any of the available fly-halves then explain here saying why they're the best player since I think they're all excellent," he commented. "He is a very calm leader but also possesses the skill to bring everyone as one driving the team onto the front foot. That's what I'll be looking for from him to do on Saturday."

Final Thoughts

Will it prove sufficient? The team were defeated in all meetings by the All Blacks previously by a total margin only 10 points, while regarding taking opportunities, Scott Robertson's side remain as sharp ever. In that event, there must be every chance of an intense contest that could come down to the last 20 minutes. Which is exactly what this approach is expecting.