Smith substitution leaves England wondering what might have been | Andy Bull

Steve Borthwick’s decision to replace both half-backs led to his side ceding the initiative in the game to New Zealand

Three minutes after half-time, Twickenham was the quietest it had been since they opened the gates earlier in the day. The All Blacks were coming on strong after the restart, making wave after wave of breaks down the left side, then back towards the middle of the pitch.

England were reeling, leaning into the ropes under the weight of blows, the right corner of their own try-line closing in fast behind them. Scott Barrett banged the ball on, through Jamie George, and the New Zealand scrum-half Cortez Ratima stooped to gather it up. He took a quick look, there were three attackers lining up outside him, and only two defenders ahead. The try was on.

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