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In expert analysis, the young playmaker has demonstrated that he merits the first-choice spot as England's fly-half versus New Zealand this weekend.

Fin Smith delivered arguably the most impressive defensive performance we have seen by an English fly-half for quite some time.

How he fronted up by consistently making defensive hits versus a physical Fijian team stood out remarkably.

His game management proved exceptional - he showed a perfect blend of skill and composure, while executing some strong choices when things were not going as expected during the opening period.

Defensive Excellence Coupled with Tactical Command

His ability to calm the squad tactically and make big calls is something he has really mastered.

In my opinion, the young fly-half represents England's primary playmaker and he should begin against the All Blacks next week.

I believe head coach the England coach views it similarly as well, because Fin has demonstrated his capability in big Test matches.

Squad Decisions and Competition

The experienced fly-half started last Saturday versus the Wallabies for leadership reasons, with some aspect of that choice was to provide consistency and reward his form during the visit of Argentina.

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

Australia were defeated in Italy on Saturday, so we should not get too carried away about that victory, which should have been by a larger margin given how off the pace the Australians performed.

Fiji, on the other hand, were much more dangerous and presented a much more difficult test.

Future Prospects

The young playmaker is still only 23 - looking ahead two years, with Ford challenging him while providing support, I believe Smith will find himself in an excellent position as a player.

The Harlequins star also has to be regarded as an option at the right time and against the right opposition.

He is developing in his career and is starting to find his feet, but he also needs the freedom to demonstrate his unique attributes.

Substitute Influence

New Zealand introduced their impact player, who registered the decisive try defeating Scotland, demonstrating the significance of having individuals who can make genuine influence as substitutes.

Such type of presence might represent the deciding factor separating victory the global tournament from failure.

McKenzie watches the game develop while substituted and thinks about how he can make a difference when he comes on.

His choices and error rate have improved significantly since his early career.

Role Discussion

Should we develop Smith as that kind influential performer, including him in the backfield could be valuable.

Nonetheless, at the moment I don't think Marcus represents the solution in the number fifteen position, so that is a role that is still up for grabs.

New Zealand will kick to challenge the English defensive line, therefore it must remain impenetrable.

It is a position requiring to become a real strength, in defense while regarding of the counter-attack threat.

Right now, I don't think Marcus is a full-back in top-tier rugby.

I find it difficult to identify the advantage fielding him there.

I want possession under his control as much as possible, but I believe that should be in the front line, especially during the last 20 minutes.

Natural Instincts

Clearly there exist numerous similarities between Ford with Smith.

Smith possesses the capacity to make the correct choices under pressure - his natural reactions represent traits that can be taught.

I recall when he got the ball at one stage just inside his territory and it looked that opportunity existed should they swung it wide.

However during these milliseconds he calculated the team required reversing the opposition as we are leading points-wise, therefore he punted to pressure them back and turn pressure.

That's the sort of playmaking that wins championships and wins World Cups.

Complete Package

He also has that calmness under pressure directing teammates nearby, while recognizing that he doesn't always need to be the first receiver.

I hope to witness him receiving the opportunity to show that at the highest level next week, just as we have seen George Ford do, particularly during club level week in and week out.

In Argentina, the experienced fly-half also stood up in difficult situations, where historically one might suggest there have been times he has not quite done so in the very highest-pressure games.

I think England possesses two fly-halves capable of performing the job, though Smith's defence combined with additional qualities, it makes him the more complete all-round player.

Defensive System

It also means you don't have to modify the defensive structure when you have an assertive player occupying the playmaker channel, rather than someone who is somewhat passive.

One might present compelling arguments for Ford starting with Smith coming off substitution.

There are so many factors that go on privately, however the coaches decide to go, this will present the opponents difficulties.

That has not always been the situation against the All Blacks, where the focus concentrated solely on picking the optimal individual.

This time, whichever fly-half selected can put New Zealand significantly.

Fin's ability to pick optimal kicks while delivering for a potential 50-20 might relieve pressure away from the national team.