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Picking the strongest starting XV in a big rugby contest feels more and more outdated nowadays, bringing back memories of bygone days like vintage television. To the point that you might almost expect finding this England selection to face New Zealand on Saturday printed with a reversed sequence. Even with New Zealand in town, the traditional way for choosing players doesn't applies.

Focus on the Final Stages

Instead, it's all about how the game finishes. On this occasion, the coach has chosen six experienced players on the bench versus only four among the starting lineup. Around the second half point on Saturday, expect a mass substitution involving new talent entering play. Similar to South Africa's famous "Bomb Squad" have demonstrated, such a approach can be extremely tough to counter.

Potential Pitfall

But, comes a small issue. While facing one of the globe's second-best teams, it's essential to start strongly too. Waiting until the arrival of star substitutes like Tom Curry and teammates could appear less brilliant should the All Blacks take a large advantage early on, as they did versus the Scots last week.

Yet this is the modern way for you. And not many know more knowledgeable about this topic than the England coach, who spent multiple matches on the substitute in his playing days.

Past Context

Among these occasions, Borthwick recalled recently, is the famous Test against New Zealand in Wellington during 2003, where England's forwards was reduced to six because of yellow cards. At that time, Borthwick and fellow reserves remained unused for the entire 80 minutes.

On the other hand, in Rome earlier, Clive Woodward introduced multiple experienced leaders after 56 minutes, a move memorably referred to like "an exceptionally strong bench since."

Today's Plan

The current England bench selection almost matches those in terms of "impact player" energy, with England clearly hoping to catch the opposition during the final 20 minutes. "Each game we've played versus them has been close late," the coach said. "So it's crucial suitable personnel available to finish the game... utilizing that level of know-how on the bench is also a key advantage for us."

Fan Perspective

Some those paying premium prices for tickets at the stadium wondering if a discount could be offered since games now effectively depend on just the final minutes instead of the entire match. Joking aside, however, exists a further subtly persuasive explanation: that Borthwick's trust toward younger talents such as Fin Baxter has becoming so strong that the "best" first lineup may not be precisely as casual supporters might think.

Selection Choices

If this qualifies Borthwick to be "a bold selector" is a topic he's is minded to talk about – "I don't go for tags... I try to select the strongest squad we possibly can for the results" – yet England's current streak of nine victories in a row has reinforced the view how Test the sport is more of an entire squad game.

"I think every player understands this is a collective endeavor. The 36 players here assisting the team get ready all contribute. This type of selfless attitude hasn't necessarily been the case with past squads. That was not my experience when I was playing."

Tough Decisions

Some difficult choices are having to be made, however, due to the absence of key individuals. The coach additionally says that "blessed for choice" in key positions, and on this occasion, it is one club's young talent who is omitted entirely. Considering wet conditions expected, choosing an experienced player in the pivotal role is hardly a huge shock, while the security of New Zealand's defense under kicks will likely to be examined often.

Experience plus Versatility

Additionally, there is the added importance of experience and the need to have a bench option who is able to slot into other positions, particularly as a key player still completely ready. "It was possible to select any of the three fly-halves and be sat here saying why each is the right player since I think they're all excellent," he commented. "George provides very calm presence but also has the ability to bring everyone together driving the team on to the front foot. That's what I'll be expecting from him to do this weekend."

Closing Thoughts

Can it prove enough? The team were defeated in all meetings against New Zealand previously by a total difference only 10 points, and regarding converting chances, Scott Robertson's side are highly effective as any. Given this event, it's likely a strong possibility of an intense battle that potentially boil down to the final 20 minutes. That's exactly what this setup are expecting.