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Selecting your top starting XV in a major match game seems increasingly quaint these days, bringing back thoughts of past eras such as vintage television. To the point that one might almost anticipate to see this England selection against the All Blacks this weekend displayed with a jumbled sequence. Despite the All Blacks in town, this conventional method of choosing players doesn't hold true.

Emphasis on the Final Stages

Rather, it's centered on how the game concludes. This time, the coach opted to chosen six experienced players on the bench versus just a few among the first XV. Around the second half mark on Saturday, there will be an extensive substitution involving fresh talent joining the field. As the Springboks' famous "Bomb Squad" has demonstrated, this tactic can be very difficult for opponents.

Possible Pitfall

But, there is one small issue. When facing the world's top-tier teams, it is vital to start strongly too. Waiting until the arrival of key replacements like Tom Curry and others could seem less smart if New Zealand build a significant lead early on, as they did versus Scotland last week.

Yet this is today's approach in rugby. Furthermore few know more knowledgeable about the subject compared to Borthwick, as he spent multiple matches as an unused bench during his playing days.

Historical Context

Including these matches, Borthwick recalled recently, is a notable match versus New Zealand abroad back in 2003, when England's forwards was reduced to six due to disciplinary issues. Even then, Borthwick and fellow reserves stayed unused for the entire 80 minutes.

On the other hand, during a match in Italy the previous year, the then-coach introduced multiple England captains around 56 minutes, a move famously described as "the most illustrious bench ever."

Current Plan

The current England substitute selection nearly rivals those in terms of "impact player" energy, with the team clearly hoping to overtake the opposition during the final 20 minutes. "Every match we have faced versus New Zealand has gone late," the coach stated. "Therefore it's crucial the right players on to finish the game... having such a degree of know-how on the bench is an important asset for us."

Fan Considerations

There will be fans spending premium prices for tickets at the stadium questioning whether a discount might be offered since matches now largely depend on only the final minutes rather than the entire match. Joking aside, however, exists another quietly persuasive explanation: which is Borthwick's confidence toward younger talents such as Fin Baxter is grown sufficiently strong so that the "strongest" first team is not precisely as casual supporters might think.

Picking Choices

Whether that qualifies Borthwick to be "a bold coach" remains a topic he is minded to discuss – "I'm not into labels... I aim to select the strongest team we possibly can for success" – but England's ongoing run with nine victories in a row has strengthened the view how Test rugby has become more of a 23-man game.

"In my view every player recognizes this is a collective effort. The 36 individuals here helping us prepare all play a part. This type of selfless mindset hasn't necessarily been the case in an past squads. That was different during my time as a player."

Tough Judgments

Some difficult judgments are having to be made, however, with the absence of key individuals. Borthwick also says he feels "spoilt for choice" at fly-half, so this time, it is one club's young talent that is omitted entirely. Given the damp conditions expected, the selection an experienced player at No 10 is hardly a major surprise, and the security the All Blacks' back three under high balls will likely to be examined often.

Experience plus Versatility

Then, there is the extra value of seasoned players together with the need for substitute player that can fill in other positions, especially as a key individual still fully ready. "I could have picked either of the available fly-halves and explain now talking about how each is the best player because I believe each one is terrific," he said. "He is a composed presence and has the ability to unite everyone as one driving the team on to attack. It's what I'll be expecting him to do this weekend."

Closing Thoughts

Will it all be sufficient? England were defeated in all meetings by New Zealand last year by a total difference only a small amount, while regarding converting chances, Scott Robertson's side are as sharp as any. Given this scenario, there must be every chance of a close battle which potentially come down to the last stages. That's exactly what the England approach are expecting.