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In expert analysis, Fin Smith has shown why he deserves the starting position as England's fly-half against New Zealand this weekend.

The Northampton Saints star delivered without doubt the best defensive display we have seen by an English playmaker for quite some time.

His courageous approach by consistently making his tackles against an aggressive Fiji side was impressive.

His tactical control was also immense - he showed an excellent balance of skill and composure, while executing some strong decisions during moments didn't proceed as expected during the opening period.

Defensive Excellence Coupled with Tactical Leadership

His capacity to calm the squad strategically while making big calls represents an aspect he has really mastered.

From my perspective, the young fly-half represents England's number one fly-half and he should start versus the All Blacks this weekend.

I believe head coach the England coach views it that way too, because Fin has proven he can perform in big international games.

Team Selection Amid Rivalry

The experienced fly-half started last Saturday against Australia due to captaincy considerations, and part of that choice was to provide continuity while acknowledging his form from the tour of Argentina.

But England's showing against Fiji was a significant step up from the performance versus the Wallabies.

Australia lost in Italy on Saturday, so we should not get too carried away about that victory, that could have been more comprehensive given how below par Australia performed.

Fiji, by contrast, were much more dangerous and presented a much more difficult test.

Long-term Potential

The young playmaker remains just 23 - projecting forward 24 months, alongside Ford pushing him while providing support, I think Smith will find himself in a very strong place in his career.

Marcus Smith also has to be considered as an option when appropriate and against the right opposition.

He's progressing as a player while beginning to find his feet, but he also needs the freedom to demonstrate his unique attributes.

Substitute Influence

The All Blacks brought on their impact player, who scored the match-winning try defeating the Scottish team, demonstrating the importance of having individuals capable of creating a real impact as substitutes.

That kind of player can be the deciding factor between winning a World Cup from failure.

McKenzie observes the match unfold from the bench and thinks regarding ways to create an impact upon entering.

His decision-making and mistake frequency have enhanced substantially from his initial career.

Role Discussion

Should we develop Smith to be that kind of impactful performer, then having him among substitutes might prove valuable.

However, at the moment I don't think he represents the solution in the number fifteen position, making it a position remaining up for grabs.

The All Blacks are likely to punt testing England's defensive line, therefore it must remain impenetrable.

It is a position requiring to become a genuine asset, both defensively while regarding of the counter-attack danger.

Right now, I believe Marcus functions as full-back in top-tier rugby.

I struggle to see the benefit of playing him in that position.

I prefer possession under his control frequently, but I believe this should occur among starters, especially during the last quarter.

Natural Instincts

There are obviously numerous similarities comparing Ford and Fin Smith.

Smith possesses the ability executing right decisions under pressure - his instincts are not something you can really coach.

I recall when he got possession during one phase within his territory and it looked that opportunity existed on if they swung it wide.

However during these milliseconds he thought they needed to turn the opposition since England were leading points-wise, therefore he punted it to pin the opponents applying the screw.

That's the sort of playmaking that wins titles while claiming World Cups.

All-round Ability

He also has composure under pressure to organise the players nearby, and the understanding that he mustn't always need as primary receiver.

I hope to witness him receiving the opportunity to show this at elite standards soon, similar to the veteran accomplish, particularly during club level week in consistently.

During the South American tour, the experienced fly-half also stood up in difficult circumstances, where historically you could argue occasions existed he has not quite delivered during extremely tense matches.

I think England possesses two fly-halves capable of performing the role, but with Fin's defence combined with everything else, it makes him the better-rounded all-round player.

Tactical Setup

It also means there's no need to adjust your defensive system when you have someone aggressive occupying the playmaker position, instead of someone who is a little more reserved.

One might present compelling arguments for Ford starting and Fin Smith entering from substitution.

Numerous factors occurring privately, however the coaches choose to proceed, it will give the opponents difficulties.

That has not always been the situation facing New Zealand, when attention was simply on picking the right player.

On this occasion, either playmaker they choose will pressure the All Blacks under real pressure.

Smith's capacity selecting the right kick and execute for a potential 50-20 can take pressure off England.