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Selecting the top starting XV in a important match contest feels increasingly outdated these days, evoking thoughts of past eras such as vintage television. To the point where one could almost expect finding the England lineup against New Zealand this weekend displayed in a jumbled order. Even with the All Blacks visiting, the traditional method for picking the team no longer applies.

Emphasis on the Final Stages

Instead, it's centered on how the game ends. This time, the coach has chosen multiple British & Irish Lions on the bench compared to only four in the first XV. At some point the 50-minute mark on Saturday, expect an extensive change with new players joining the field. Similar to the Springboks' renowned "Bomb Squad" have demonstrated, such a approach can be very tough to counter.

Possible Challenge

However, comes one small issue. While facing the world's second-best sides, it's essential to start well as well. Waiting for the arrival of key replacements like Ellis Genge and teammates could appear less brilliant should New Zealand build a large lead early on, like versus Scotland at Murrayfield.

Yet that's today's way for you. Furthermore few know more expert about this topic compared to Borthwick, as he sat out several matches as an unused substitute in his career.

Historical Context

Including these occasions, Borthwick recalled this week, was a notable Test against the All Blacks in Wellington during 2003, when England's pack was reduced to six due to disciplinary issues. At that time, Borthwick along with fellow substitutes remained on the sidelines for the entire match.

On the other hand, during a match in Italy the previous year, Clive Woodward brought on multiple experienced leaders after 56 minutes, strategy memorably described like "the most illustrious substitutes ever."

Current Strategy

The current England bench choices almost rivals those in terms of "Big Dog" vibes, as the team obviously hoping to overtake the opposition in the final quarter. "Every game we have played versus New Zealand has gone late," Borthwick said. "Therefore we need suitable personnel on to finish strongly... utilizing that level of experience on the bench is an important asset for the team."

Spectator Considerations

There will be those paying high rates for tickets at the stadium wondering whether reduced pricing could be available if games currently largely hinge around only 20-odd minutes rather than the full match. Joking aside, however, exists another quietly compelling reason: which is Borthwick's trust in emerging players like Joe Heyes has becoming sufficiently deep so that England's "strongest" starting lineup is not exactly as many supporters might think.

Picking Decisions

Whether this qualifies him as "an adventurous selector" is not something he's inclined to talk about – "I don't go for tags... I aim and pick the strongest team we possibly can to get success" – but the team's current run with nine Test wins consecutively has strengthened his belief how Test the sport has become increasingly a 23-man game.

"I think every player understands that it's a collective endeavor. The 36 players in camp helping the team get ready all contribute. This type of unselfish mindset hasn't necessarily existed the case in an past squads. That was not my experience during my time as playing."

Delicate Judgments

Some delicate choices have had to occur, even so, with injuries of certain players. The coach additionally says he feels "spoilt with options" in key positions, and on this occasion, the decision Northampton's Fin Smith that misses out completely. Given the damp weather forecast, choosing an experienced player at No 10 is not a major surprise, and the security of New Zealand's back three against kicks is sure to be examined often.

Experience plus Flexibility

Then, comes the extra value of experience together with necessity to have substitute option who can fill in other positions, especially with a key player still fully fit. "It was possible to picked either of the three playmakers then be sat now saying about how they're the best player since I think they're all excellent," Borthwick said. "He provides composed leader and has the skill to unite the team together and [put] the team onto the front foot. That's what I'll be looking for from him to deliver this weekend."

Closing Outlook

Can it prove sufficient? England were defeated in all meetings by the All Blacks previously by a total difference of just 10 points, and regarding converting chances, Scott Robertson's side remain highly effective ever. In that event, there must be every chance of an intense battle which could boil down to the final stages. That's clearly what the England approach are anticipating.