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Picking the strongest starting XV for a important rugby game feels increasingly old-fashioned nowadays, evoking thoughts of different times such as classic TV shows. To the point where one might nearly expect to see this home team lineup to face New Zealand on Saturday printed in a reversed order. Despite the All Blacks visiting, the conventional method of picking players no longer hold true.

Emphasis on the Endgame

Rather, the focus is all about the game finishes. On this occasion, the coach opted to chosen six experienced players for the bench compared to only four among the first XV. At some point during the second half mark on Saturday, there will be a mass change involving fresh players joining the field. As the Springboks' renowned "Bomb Squad" have shown, this tactic is very tough to counter.

Potential Pitfall

But, there is one minor issue. While facing one of the globe's second-best sides, it's crucial to start strongly too. Waiting for the introduction from star replacements like Tom Curry or teammates could appear not so brilliant if the All Blacks build a large lead early on, like against Scotland at Murrayfield.

Yet this is the modern approach for you. And not many know more knowledgeable about the subject than Borthwick, who spent several matches on the substitute during his playing days.

Past Examples

Among those matches, Borthwick mentioned recently, was a notable Test against New Zealand in Wellington back in 2003, when England's forwards were cut down because of yellow cards. At that time, Borthwick and other reserves stayed unused throughout the 80 minutes.

Conversely, during a match in Italy the previous year, Clive Woodward introduced multiple experienced leaders around 56 minutes, strategy memorably described as "the most illustrious substitutes since."

Today's Plan

This team's bench selection almost rivals those in terms of "impact player" energy, with England clearly aiming to overtake New Zealand during the final quarter. "Each game we've played versus New Zealand has gone late," the coach said. "So we need suitable personnel available to finish strongly... having such a degree of experience among substitutes is also a key advantage for us."

Spectator Perspective

Some those paying premium prices on tickets at the stadium questioning if reduced pricing could be offered since matches now largely hinge on just the final minutes rather than the full 80 minutes. Seriously, though, there is a further quietly persuasive explanation: that the coach's trust in emerging talents like Fin Baxter has becoming sufficiently strong that England's "strongest" starting team is not precisely as casual fans would assume.

Picking Choices

Whether this makes Borthwick to be "a bold coach" remains a topic he inclined to discuss – "I don't into labels... I aim and pick the best squad possible for the results" – but the team's ongoing streak with nine victories in a row has strengthened his belief how Test the sport is increasingly a 23-man game.

"In my view every player understands this is a collective effort. All the players here helping us get ready all play a part. That kind of unselfish mindset hasn't necessarily existed the case in an England team. That was different during my time as playing."

Delicate Decisions

Some difficult judgments are having to occur, even so, due to the absence of certain individuals. The coach also notes he feels "spoilt for choice" at fly-half, and this time, it is Northampton's young talent who misses out entirely. Given the damp weather forecast, the selection of George Ford at No 10 is hardly a major shock, and the security the All Blacks' back three under high balls will likely face examined frequently.

Know-How plus Versatility

Additionally, there is the extra importance of experience together with the need for a bench player that is able to fill in the back three, especially with a key player not yet completely ready. "I could have select either of the available playmakers then explain now saying about how each is the right player because I believe they're all terrific," Borthwick said. "George provides very calm leader and possesses the skill to bring everyone as one driving the team onto attack. That's what I'll be expecting from him to do on Saturday."

Closing Outlook

Will it prove sufficient? England were defeated three times by New Zealand previously by a total margin only a small amount, while regarding taking opportunities, Scott Robertson's side remain as sharp ever. Given this scenario, there must be every chance of an intense contest that could boil down to the final 20 minutes. That's exactly what the England approach is expecting.