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Picking your strongest starting XV in a big rugby contest seems increasingly outdated nowadays, evoking thoughts of bygone days such as classic TV shows. So much so that one might nearly anticipate finding the England selection against New Zealand this weekend printed in a jumbled sequence. Even with the All Blacks in town, this traditional way for choosing players no longer applies.

Emphasis on the Endgame

Rather, the focus is all about the game finishes. On this occasion, the coach has chosen six experienced players on the bench compared to just four in the first XV. At some point during the second half point this weekend, there will be an extensive substitution with fresh players joining the field. Similar to the Springboks' renowned "impact substitutes" has demonstrated, this approach can be very difficult for opponents.

Potential Challenge

However, there is a minor snag. While facing the world's second-best teams, it is essential to begin well too. Holding out until the arrival from star substitutes such as Ellis Genge or teammates might appear not so smart should the All Blacks take a large lead by halftime, like against Scotland last week.

But that's the modern approach in rugby. Furthermore few are more knowledgeable about the subject compared to Borthwick, who spent multiple matches on the substitute during his career.

Historical Context

Among these matches, he recalled this week, is the famous match against New Zealand abroad during 2003, when the forwards was reduced down due to yellow cards. Even then, he along with fellow substitutes stayed on the sidelines for the entire 80 minutes.

On the other hand, in Rome the previous year, the then-coach brought on multiple experienced leaders around 56 minutes, strategy memorably referred to as "the most illustrious substitutes since."

Current Strategy

This team's bench selection almost rivals those in terms of "impact player" vibes, with England clearly hoping to overtake the opposition during the last 20 minutes. "Every game we've played against them has gone late," the coach said. "Therefore it's crucial the right personnel available to close out strongly... having such a degree of know-how on the bench is also a key advantage for us."

Fan Perspective

There will be fans spending premium prices on tickets this weekend questioning whether reduced pricing might be offered since games currently effectively hinge around only 20-odd stages rather than the entire 80 minutes. Joking aside, however, exists a further subtly compelling reason: which is Borthwick's confidence toward younger talents such as Joe Heyes is grown sufficiently deep so that the "best" first lineup may not be precisely as casual supporters would assume.

Picking Choices

Whether that qualifies Borthwick as "an adventurous selector" remains not something he's inclined to talk about – "I don't go for tags... I aim and pick the best squad possible for the results" – yet the team's ongoing run of nine Test wins in a row has strengthened the view how Test rugby is increasingly an entire squad game.

"In my view every member recognizes that it's a collective effort. All the players in camp helping us prepare all play a part. This type of unselfish mindset hasn't necessarily been present with England team. It was not my experience during my time as a player."

Tough Judgments

Some delicate choices have had to occur, even so, due to injuries of certain individuals. The coach additionally says that "spoilt for choice" at fly-half, so this time, it is one club's young talent who is omitted entirely. Given the damp conditions expected, choosing an experienced player in the pivotal role is not a huge surprise, while ability the All Blacks' back three under high balls will likely face examined frequently.

Experience and Flexibility

Then, comes the extra value of experience and necessity for substitute player that can fill in the back three, particularly with another individual not yet completely fit. "It was possible to picked either of the three fly-halves then be sat here talking about how they're the right player because I believe they're all excellent," Borthwick said. "George is a composed presence and possesses the ability to bring the team together and [put] the team on to the front foot. It's what I'll be expecting him to deliver this weekend."

Closing Outlook

Will it all be sufficient? England lost three times by New Zealand previously by a total difference of just a small amount, while regarding taking opportunities, the opposition are highly effective ever. In that event, it's likely every chance of a close battle which potentially come down to the final 20 minutes. Which is exactly what this approach is expecting.