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Choosing the top starting XV for a important match game feels increasingly quaint these days, evoking thoughts of bygone days such as classic TV shows. To the point where you might nearly anticipate to see the home team selection against New Zealand this weekend printed with a reversed sequence. Despite the All Blacks visiting, this traditional method for picking the team no longer applies.

Emphasis on the Final Stages

Rather, it's all about how the game finishes. This time, the coach opted to chosen six British & Irish Lions for the bench compared to only a few in the starting lineup. At some point during the 50-minute mark this weekend, there will be an extensive change with new talent joining play. Similar to the Springboks' renowned "Bomb Squad" has shown, this approach can be extremely difficult to counter.

Potential Pitfall

However, comes one minor issue. While playing one of the globe's top-tier sides, it's essential to start well as well. Waiting for the introduction from star replacements such as Tom Curry and others could seem not so brilliant should New Zealand take a large advantage early on, like versus Scotland at Murrayfield.

But that's the modern approach for you. And few know more knowledgeable on this topic compared to Borthwick, who spent several matches as an unused substitute during his playing days.

Historical Context

Among these matches, Borthwick recalled recently, was a notable Test against the All Blacks in Wellington back in 2003, where the forwards was reduced down because of yellow cards. At that time, Borthwick and other substitutes stayed on the sidelines for the entire 80 minutes.

Conversely, in Rome earlier, the then-coach brought on four England captains after 56 minutes, a move famously referred to as "the most illustrious bench since."

Today's Strategy

This team's substitute selection nearly matches those for "Big Dog" vibes, with England clearly hoping to catch the opposition during the last 20 minutes. "Every game we've faced against them has been close late," Borthwick stated. "So we need suitable personnel on to finish strongly... having such a degree of know-how on the bench is also an important asset for the team."

Spectator Considerations

Some those paying premium rates for seats at the stadium questioning if a discount could be offered since games currently effectively hinge around only 20-odd minutes rather than the entire match. Seriously, however, there is another quietly compelling explanation: which is the coach's trust in younger talents such as Fin Baxter is grown so strong so that the "strongest" starting lineup is not precisely what many fans would assume.

Picking Decisions

If this qualifies him to be "a bold coach" remains a topic he is minded to talk about – "I'm not into tags... I try and pick the best squad possible for the results" – but England's current streak with nine Test wins in a row has reinforced the view how Test the sport has become more of an entire squad game.

"I think each player recognizes this is a collective effort. The 36 individuals here helping the team prepare each contribute. That kind of selfless mindset hasn't always existed present in an past squads. It was different when I was a player."

Tough Judgments

Several delicate choices are having to occur, even so, due to injuries of key individuals. Borthwick additionally notes he feels "spoilt for choice" in key positions, so on this occasion, it is Northampton's young talent that is omitted completely. Given the damp conditions expected, the selection an experienced player at No 10 is hardly a major shock, while ability of New Zealand's defense against high balls will likely face examined frequently.

Experience plus Versatility

Then, there is the extra importance of seasoned players together with the need for substitute player who can fill in other positions, especially as another player still completely ready. "I could have select either of the available fly-halves then be sat now saying about how each is the best player since I think each one is excellent," he commented. "He provides very calm presence but also has the ability to bring the team as one driving them on to the front foot. That's what I'll be expecting from him to deliver this weekend."

Final Thoughts

Can it prove enough? England lost in all meetings by the All Blacks last year by a total difference of just a small amount, while in terms of converting opportunities, Scott Robertson's side remain highly effective ever. Given this scenario, it's likely a strong possibility of an intense battle which could boil down to the final stages. Which is clearly what the England approach is expecting.