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Selecting your best starting XV for a important rugby game feels increasingly outdated today, evoking memories of different times such as vintage television. So much so where one might almost expect finding the England selection to face New Zealand on Saturday displayed in a jumbled order. Even with New Zealand in town, this traditional method for choosing the team doesn't hold true.

Focus on the Endgame

Instead, the focus is centered on the game ends. This time, the coach opted to selected multiple experienced players on the substitutes versus just a few among the starting lineup. Around during the second half mark this weekend, expect a mass change with new talent entering the field. As South Africa's renowned "impact substitutes" has shown, such a approach can be extremely difficult for opponents.

Potential Challenge

But, comes a small snag. While facing the world's second-best teams, it is vital to start well as well. Holding out until the arrival of key substitutes like Tom Curry and others could appear less smart should the All Blacks take a significant advantage early on, as they did versus Scotland last week.

But this is the modern way for you. Furthermore few are more knowledgeable about the subject than the England coach, as he spent multiple games on the substitute in his career.

Past Context

Including those matches, Borthwick mentioned recently, was a notable match against the All Blacks abroad back in 2003, when England's forwards were reduced to six because of disciplinary issues. At that time, he along with other substitutes stayed unused for the entire match.

Conversely, during a match in Italy the previous year, the then-coach introduced four experienced leaders around the hour mark, strategy famously referred to as "the most illustrious bench ever."

Today's Plan

The current team's bench choices almost matches those in terms of "impact player" vibes, with England clearly aiming to catch the opposition in the final 20 minutes. "Every match we've played versus them has been close late," Borthwick said. "So it's crucial the right players on to close out strongly... having such a degree of know-how among substitutes is an important advantage for us."

Spectator Considerations

Some those spending premium prices for seats this weekend wondering if a discount could be available since games currently effectively depend around only 20-odd stages rather than the entire match. Joking aside, however, there is another subtly persuasive reason: which is Borthwick's confidence toward emerging players like Joe Heyes has becoming so strong so that the "strongest" first team is not exactly what casual supporters might assume.

Picking Decisions

If that qualifies Borthwick to be "a bold coach" remains a topic he inclined to discuss – "I'm not into tags... I aim to select the best team possible to get the results" – yet England's current streak with nine victories in a row has reinforced the view how international rugby has become more of an entire squad game.

"I think each member understands that it's a team endeavor. All the players in camp helping the team prepare each play a part. This type of selfless attitude has not necessarily been the case in an England team. That was different when I was a player."

Delicate Judgments

Some difficult judgments have had to be made, even so, with the absence of certain players. Borthwick also says that "spoilt with options" at fly-half, and this time, it is one club's Fin Smith that is omitted completely. Considering wet weather forecast, choosing an experienced player in the pivotal role is hardly a major surprise, while the security the All Blacks' back three against high balls is sure face examined often.

Experience plus Versatility

Then, comes the extra value of seasoned players and necessity for substitute player that can slot into other positions, particularly with a key player still fully ready. "I could have select either of the available playmakers and explain now saying why each is the right player since I believe each one is excellent," he commented. "George is a composed leader and has the skill to bring the team as one driving them on to attack. That's exactly what expecting from him to deliver on Saturday."

Closing Thoughts

Can it all be enough? England were defeated three times by the All Blacks previously with a combined difference only 10 points, and in terms of taking opportunities, Scott Robertson's side remain highly effective ever. In that scenario, it's likely every chance of a close contest which potentially come down to the final 20 minutes. That's exactly what the England setup are expecting.