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Choosing the top starting XV in a major match contest appears more and more old-fashioned these days, bringing back memories of different times such as classic TV shows. To the point that one might nearly expect finding this home team selection against the All Blacks this weekend displayed with a reversed sequence. Despite New Zealand in town, this conventional method for choosing players doesn't hold true.

Focus on the Final Stages

Instead, the focus is centered on how the match finishes. This time, the coach opted to chosen six British & Irish Lions on the bench compared to just a few in the starting lineup. At some point during the second half mark this weekend, there will be an extensive change involving fresh players joining the field. Similar to the Springboks' renowned "impact substitutes" has demonstrated, such a tactic can be extremely tough to counter.

Potential Challenge

However, there is one minor issue. When playing one of the globe's second-best teams, it is crucial to begin strongly too. Waiting until the arrival of star replacements like Ellis Genge or others could appear less brilliant if the All Blacks build a significant lead by halftime, like against Scotland at Murrayfield.

Yet that's the modern way in rugby. Furthermore few know more knowledgeable on the subject compared to Borthwick, who spent multiple matches as an unused bench during his career.

Past Examples

Including those matches, Borthwick mentioned recently, was a notable Test versus the All Blacks abroad back in 2003, where the pack were reduced down due to yellow cards. At that time, he along with fellow substitutes remained on the sidelines for the entire 80 minutes.

Conversely, in Rome the previous year, Clive Woodward brought on multiple experienced leaders after the hour mark, a move famously described as "the most illustrious substitutes since."

Current Strategy

The current England bench choices nearly rivals that in terms of "Big Dog" energy, with England clearly hoping to catch New Zealand in the last quarter. "Every match we have played versus New Zealand has gone toward the end," Borthwick stated. "So we need the right players on to close out strongly... utilizing that level of experience among substitutes is an important asset for us."

Spectator Considerations

Some fans spending premium prices for tickets this weekend wondering if reduced pricing could be available if games currently effectively hinge around just 20-odd minutes instead of the full 80 minutes. Joking aside, however, exists a further subtly persuasive explanation: that the coach's confidence in younger talents like Fin Baxter is grown sufficiently deep that the "best" first team may not be exactly as many fans might think.

Selection Choices

If that makes Borthwick to be "a bold coach" remains not something he's inclined to talk about – "I don't go for tags... I try and pick the strongest squad possible for success" – yet the team's ongoing run with nine victories consecutively has reinforced the view how Test rugby is more of a 23-man game.

"I think every player recognizes that it's a collective endeavor. All the players in camp helping us get ready all contribute. This type of unselfish mindset has not necessarily been present in an England team. That was different when I was a player."

Delicate Judgments

Several difficult choices have had to be made, even so, due to injuries of certain individuals. Borthwick also says that "blessed with options" at fly-half, and this time, the decision one club's Fin Smith who is omitted entirely. Given the damp conditions expected, choosing an experienced player in the pivotal role is hardly a huge surprise, and ability the All Blacks' defense against high balls is sure face tested often.

Know-How plus Versatility

Then, there is the added importance of seasoned players together with necessity to have substitute player that can fill in other positions, particularly with another player still completely ready. "I could have picked any of the three playmakers then explain now saying about how each is the best choice because I think they're all excellent," Borthwick commented. "George provides very calm leader but also possesses the ability to unite everyone as one driving the team on to attack. It's what I'll be expecting him to deliver this weekend."

Closing Outlook

Will it all be sufficient? England lost three times against New Zealand previously by a total margin of just 10 points, and in terms of converting chances, the opposition remain as sharp ever. Given this scenario, there must be a strong possibility of a close contest that could boil down to the final stages. Which is clearly what this approach is anticipating.