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Selecting the best starting XV for a major match game feels increasingly outdated today, evoking thoughts of bygone days such as classic TV shows. To the point where you could almost expect finding the England selection against New Zealand on Saturday displayed with a jumbled order. Despite the All Blacks in town, this conventional way of picking players no longer hold true.

Emphasis on the Final Stages

Rather, the focus is centered on how the match concludes. This time, the coach has chosen multiple British & Irish Lions on the substitutes compared to just four among the first XV. At some point during the second half point this weekend, expect a mass change involving fresh players entering the field. As the Springboks' renowned "Bomb Squad" has shown, such a approach can be very difficult for opponents.

Possible Pitfall

But, comes a small snag. While playing the world's top-tier sides, it is essential to begin well too. Holding out for the arrival of key substitutes such as Tom Curry or others could appear not so brilliant if the All Blacks build a significant advantage early on, like versus Scotland at Murrayfield.

But that's today's way for you. And not many are more knowledgeable on this topic than Borthwick, who spent several games as an unused substitute in his playing days.

Past Context

Among these occasions, he recalled recently, was a notable match against New Zealand abroad during 2003, when England's pack were reduced to six due to disciplinary issues. At that time, he along with other reserves remained on the sidelines throughout the 80 minutes.

On the other hand, during a match in Italy the previous year, the then-coach brought on four England captains after 56 minutes, a move famously described like "the most illustrious substitutes since."

Current Plan

This England substitute choices almost rivals those for "Big Dog" energy, as the team obviously aiming to overtake New Zealand during the final quarter. "Every match we've played against New Zealand has been close toward the end," Borthwick stated. "Therefore we need the right players available to close out the game... having such a degree of experience on the bench is an important advantage for the team."

Fan Perspective

There will be those paying premium prices on seats at the stadium wondering if reduced pricing could be offered since games currently effectively depend on just 20-odd minutes rather than the entire 80 minutes. Seriously, though, exists another subtly compelling reason: which is the coach's confidence in younger players like Joe Heyes is grown sufficiently strong so that England's "strongest" first team is not precisely as many fans would think.

Selection Decisions

If this qualifies Borthwick as "a bold coach" is a topic he is minded to discuss – "I don't into labels... I aim and pick the strongest squad we possibly can for the results" – yet England's ongoing streak with nine Test wins consecutively has strengthened his belief that international the sport is more of a 23-man game.

"In my view every player recognizes that it's a team endeavor. The 36 players here assisting the team get ready all play a part. This type of unselfish mindset hasn't necessarily existed present in an England team. It was not my experience during my time as a player."

Tough Judgments

Several difficult judgments are having to occur, however, with the absence of certain players. The coach also says he feels "blessed for choice" in key positions, and on this occasion, it is Northampton's Fin Smith who misses out completely. Considering wet conditions expected, choosing of George Ford at No 10 is hardly a huge shock, and the security the All Blacks' defense under high balls will likely face tested often.

Experience and Versatility

Additionally, comes the extra importance of seasoned players and the need for substitute option who is able to slot into the back three, particularly with a key player not yet completely fit. "It was possible to picked either of the three playmakers and explain here talking why each is the right player since I believe each one is excellent," Borthwick said. "George is a very calm presence but also possesses the skill to unite the team as one and [put] them onto attack. It's exactly what expecting him to do on Saturday."

Closing Thoughts

Will it all be sufficient? England lost three times against the All Blacks last year with a combined difference only 10 points, while regarding taking opportunities, the opposition are highly effective as any. Given this event, it's likely every chance of an intense battle which potentially boil down to the final stages. Which is clearly what the England setup is expecting.