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Choosing the strongest lineup in a big match game appears increasingly quaint these days, bringing back memories of different times like vintage television. So much so that you could almost expect finding the England selection to face New Zealand on Saturday displayed in a reversed sequence. Even with New Zealand in town, this traditional way of picking the team doesn't hold true.

Emphasis on the Endgame

Instead, it's all about the game finishes. This time, the coach has chosen multiple British & Irish Lions for the bench compared to only four among the first XV. At some point during the 50-minute mark on Saturday, there will be a mass change with new players entering play. As the Springboks' renowned "Bomb Squad" has shown, such a approach is extremely difficult for opponents.

Potential Pitfall

However, there is one minor issue. While facing the world's top-tier sides, it is crucial to begin strongly as well. Holding out for the introduction of key replacements such as Ellis Genge and teammates might appear not so smart should New Zealand build a significant advantage early on, like versus Scotland last week.

But this is the modern approach for you. And not many know more expert about this topic than Borthwick, as he sat out multiple games on the bench during his playing days.

Past Examples

Including those matches, he mentioned recently, is the famous Test against New Zealand in Wellington back in 2003, where England's forwards was reduced down because of disciplinary issues. At that time, he and fellow substitutes stayed unused throughout the match.

On the other hand, during a match in Italy the previous year, the then-coach brought on multiple experienced leaders around the hour mark, a move famously described like "an exceptionally strong bench ever."

Current Plan

This team's substitute choices nearly rivals those for "Big Dog" energy, as England clearly aiming to catch New Zealand during the last quarter. "Each game we have faced versus them has been close late," the coach stated. "So we need the right personnel on to close out strongly... having that level of experience among substitutes is an important asset for the team."

Spectator Considerations

Some those paying high rates for seats this weekend questioning if reduced pricing could be offered if games currently largely depend on just the final minutes rather than the full match. Joking aside, though, exists another quietly persuasive explanation: that Borthwick's trust in younger players such as Joe Heyes has grown sufficiently deep that the "best" first lineup is not exactly what casual supporters might assume.

Selection Choices

If this qualifies him to be "an adventurous coach" is not something he's is minded to talk about – "I'm not go for labels... I try to select the strongest squad we possibly can for success" – but England's current streak of nine Test wins in a row has reinforced the view that international the sport is increasingly a 23-man effort.

"I think each member recognizes this is a team effort. The 36 players in camp helping us get ready each contribute. This type of unselfish mindset hasn't necessarily existed present in an past squads. It was different when I was playing."

Delicate Judgments

Some difficult choices have had to occur, however, due to the absence of certain individuals. Borthwick also says that "spoilt with options" in key positions, and on this occasion, the decision Northampton's young talent who misses out completely. Given wet conditions expected, the selection an experienced player at No 10 is hardly a huge surprise, and the security of New Zealand's back three under high balls is sure to be tested often.

Know-How and Flexibility

Then, there is the added importance of experience and necessity to have substitute option that can slot into the back three, especially as another individual not yet completely fit. "It was possible to select either of the available playmakers then be sat here saying why each is the right choice because I believe each one is excellent," he said. "He provides composed presence but also has the ability to unite the team as one driving them onto attack. That's what I'll be expecting him to do on Saturday."

Closing Thoughts

Will it prove enough? England were defeated in all meetings against New Zealand last year by a total margin of just 10 points, and regarding taking opportunities, the opposition are as sharp as any. Given this scenario, there must be a strong possibility of an intense battle that could boil down to the last 20 minutes. Which is exactly what this approach is anticipating.