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Picking your strongest starting XV for a big rugby contest feels more and more quaint these days, bringing back memories of different times such as vintage television. To the point where you could almost expect to see this England selection against New Zealand on Saturday displayed in a reversed sequence. Despite the All Blacks visiting, this traditional method for picking players doesn't applies.

Focus on the Endgame

Rather, it's all about the match ends. This time, Steve Borthwick has selected multiple British & Irish Lions on the substitutes versus just a few among the starting lineup. Around during the second half point on Saturday, expect an extensive change involving fresh players joining play. As South Africa's famous "impact substitutes" have demonstrated, this approach is extremely tough for opponents.

Potential Challenge

But, there is a small snag. While facing one of the globe's top-tier sides, it is vital to start well as well. Waiting until the arrival from key replacements such as Tom Curry and others might appear less brilliant if the All Blacks take a large lead by halftime, as they did versus the Scots at Murrayfield.

But this is today's approach in rugby. And not many know more knowledgeable about the subject compared to Borthwick, as he sat out several matches as an unused substitute in his career.

Past Context

Including those occasions, he recalled recently, was the famous match against New Zealand abroad during 2003, when the forwards was reduced down because of disciplinary issues. Even then, Borthwick along with fellow substitutes remained unused for the entire match.

Conversely, in Rome the previous year, the then-coach introduced multiple experienced leaders after the hour mark, a move famously described like "an exceptionally strong bench since."

Today's Strategy

This team's substitute selection almost rivals that for "Big Dog" vibes, with England clearly aiming to overtake New Zealand in the final quarter. "Each game we've faced against New Zealand has gone late," Borthwick said. "So we need suitable personnel on to finish the game... utilizing such a degree of know-how on the bench is a key advantage for the team."

Spectator Perspective

There will be fans paying premium prices on seats this weekend questioning whether a discount might be available if matches now largely hinge around only 20-odd minutes rather than the entire match. Joking aside, however, exists another quietly persuasive explanation: that Borthwick's confidence in emerging players like Fin Baxter is becoming so deep so that the "strongest" starting team is not precisely as many fans might assume.

Picking Choices

Whether this qualifies Borthwick as "a bold selector" remains not something he's inclined to discuss – "I don't into tags... I aim to select the best team possible to get the results" – yet England's current streak with nine Test wins in a row has reinforced the view that Test rugby is more of a 23-man game.

"In my view each member understands that it's a collective endeavor. All the players here helping the team prepare each play a part. That kind of selfless mindset has not always been the case with England team. That was different during my time as playing."

Tough Judgments

Several difficult choices have had to be made, however, due to the absence of certain players. The coach additionally notes that "spoilt with options" in key positions, so this time, it is Northampton's Fin Smith that misses out entirely. Considering the damp weather forecast, choosing an experienced player at No 10 is not a huge shock, while the security the All Blacks' back three against kicks is sure to be examined often.

Experience and Versatility

Then, there is the added value of seasoned players and necessity for substitute player who is able to slot into the back three, particularly with a key player still completely ready. "It was possible to select either of the three playmakers then explain now talking why they're the right choice because I believe each one is terrific," Borthwick said. "George is a composed leader and possesses the skill to unite everyone as one and [put] the team onto the front foot. It's exactly what looking for from him to deliver on Saturday."

Final Outlook

Will it all be enough? England lost in all meetings by the All Blacks last year by a total difference of just 10 points, and regarding converting opportunities, Scott Robertson's side are as sharp ever. In that scenario, it's likely a strong possibility of a close battle that potentially come down to the last 20 minutes. That's clearly what this approach is anticipating.