England's Rugby Selection Revamp: Engaging in the Generation Game Versus the All Blacks

Choosing the top starting XV in a big rugby contest seems more and more outdated today, bringing back memories of bygone days such as vintage television. To the point that one could nearly expect finding the England lineup against the All Blacks this weekend displayed in a jumbled sequence. Even with the All Blacks in town, this conventional way of choosing the team doesn't applies.

Focus on the Endgame

Instead, it's centered on how the game finishes. On this occasion, Steve Borthwick opted to chosen six experienced players on the bench versus just four in the starting lineup. At some point during the second half point on Saturday, expect a mass change with fresh players entering the field. Similar to the Springboks' famous "Bomb Squad" have shown, this tactic can be extremely difficult to counter.

Potential Pitfall

But, comes a small snag. While playing one of the globe's top-tier sides, it is vital to begin strongly as well. Holding out for the arrival of key substitutes such as Ellis Genge or others might appear less brilliant if the All Blacks take a large lead early on, like versus Scotland last week.

Yet this is the modern way in rugby. Furthermore not many are more knowledgeable on this topic compared to the England coach, who sat out multiple matches as an unused substitute during his playing days.

Historical Examples

Including these occasions, Borthwick mentioned recently, is the famous match versus the All Blacks abroad back in 2003, where the pack were cut down because of disciplinary issues. Even then, he along with other reserves stayed on the sidelines throughout the 80 minutes.

Conversely, in Rome earlier, Clive Woodward introduced multiple England captains after 56 minutes, a move memorably described as "the most illustrious bench ever."

Today's Strategy

This team's bench choices nearly matches that for "impact player" energy, with England obviously aiming to overtake New Zealand during the final 20 minutes. "Every game we've played versus them has gone late," Borthwick stated. "Therefore it's crucial suitable personnel available to finish strongly... having such a degree of know-how on the bench is an important asset for us."

Fan Perspective

There will be fans spending high prices on tickets this weekend wondering whether a discount might be offered if games currently effectively depend on just 20-odd stages rather than the full match. Seriously, though, exists a further quietly compelling explanation: that Borthwick's confidence toward younger talents such as Joe Heyes is becoming so deep so that England's "best" first team may not be exactly what casual fans might assume.

Selection Decisions

Whether that qualifies him as "an adventurous selector" remains a topic he is minded to discuss – "I'm not into labels... I try and pick the strongest team we possibly can to get success" – but England's current run of nine Test wins in a row has reinforced the view that international the sport is increasingly an entire squad game.

"I think each member recognizes that it's a collective effort. All the individuals in camp assisting the team get ready all play a part. This type of unselfish mindset has not necessarily been present with England team. It was not my experience during my time as a player."

Tough Judgments

Several difficult choices are having to be made, even so, due to injuries of key players. Borthwick also notes that "blessed with options" at fly-half, and this time, it is one club's Fin Smith that misses out completely. Given the damp weather forecast, choosing of George Ford at No 10 is not a huge surprise, while the security the All Blacks' back three against kicks will likely face examined frequently.

Experience and Flexibility

Additionally, comes the added value of experience and the need for a bench option that can slot into other positions, particularly as another individual not yet fully fit. "I could have select either of the three playmakers then be sat now talking why each is the best choice because I think they're all terrific," he said. "George is a composed leader and has the skill to unite everyone together driving the team onto attack. It's exactly what looking for from him to do this weekend."

Final Thoughts

Will it all be enough? England were defeated in all meetings against the All Blacks last year with a combined difference of just 10 points, while in terms of converting opportunities, Scott Robertson's side remain as sharp as any. In that event, there must be a strong possibility of a close battle which could come down to the last 20 minutes. Which is exactly what the England setup are expecting.