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In expert analysis, the young playmaker has shown that he merits the starting position as England's fly-half versus New Zealand on Saturday.

The Northampton Saints star produced arguably the most impressive defensive display observed from an England playmaker in several years.

His courageous approach by consistently making defensive hits versus an aggressive Fijian team was impressive.

His game management proved exceptional - he demonstrated an excellent balance of finesse and composure, while executing several crucial decisions during moments didn't proceed as expected during the opening period.

Defensive Excellence Coupled with Tactical Command

His ability to settle the team tactically while making big calls represents an aspect he has really mastered.

In my opinion, Fin Smith is England's number one fly-half and he should begin versus New Zealand next week.

I believe the manager the England coach views it similarly as well, since Smith has demonstrated his capability during important international games.

Team Selection Amid Rivalry

George Ford began last Saturday against Australia due to captaincy considerations, with some aspect of that choice was to provide continuity and reward his performance during the visit to South America.

However, the national team's performance against Fiji represented a marked step up from the performance versus the Wallabies.

Australia lost on Italian soil on Saturday, therefore we must not get overly excited with that win, that could have been more comprehensive given how off the pace the Australians were.

The Fijian team, on the other hand, proved significantly threatening while offering a far tougher challenge.

Long-term Potential

Fin Smith is still only twenty-three - looking ahead two years, with Ford challenging him but also offering backup, I believe Fin will be in a very strong place in his career.

The Harlequins star also has to be considered as a possibility at the right time and against suitable opponents.

He is developing in his career and is starting to find his feet, but he also needs the freedom to show his distinctive qualities.

Substitute Influence

New Zealand brought on Damian McKenzie, who scored the match-winning try to beat Scotland, demonstrating the importance of having players who can make a real impact from the bench.

That kind of presence can be the deciding factor separating victory the global tournament from failure.

The All Blacks substitute watches the match unfold from the bench while considering about how to create a difference upon entering.

His choices and mistake frequency have improved substantially from his initial professional days.

Role Discussion

If we can get Smith as that kind of impactful performer, then having him among substitutes could be beneficial.

However, currently I don't think he represents the solution at full-back, making it a role that is still unclaimed.

The All Blacks will kick to challenge England's backfield, therefore it must remain impenetrable.

This role that needs transforming into a genuine asset, in defense and in terms offensive transitions danger.

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

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

I prefer possession in his hands frequently, but I believe that should be among starters, especially during the last quarter.

Innate Qualities

There are obviously a lot of parallels between Ford and Fin Smith.

Smith possesses the capacity to make right decisions under pressure - his instincts are not something that can be taught.

I recall as he received the ball during one phase just inside his territory and it looked that opportunity existed on if they spread play.

However during these split-seconds he thought the team required to turn the opposition as we are leading points-wise, therefore he punted to pressure the opponents and turn pressure.

This represents the type of fly-half play that wins championships and wins World Cups.

Complete Package

He additionally possesses that calmness under pressure to organise the players nearby, and the understanding that he doesn't always need to be the first option.

I want to see him receiving the opportunity demonstrating this at elite standards soon, just as we have seen the veteran do, especially at club level week in and week out.

In Argentina, Ford similarly excelled during challenging circumstances, where historically one might suggest occasions existed he has not quite done so during extremely tense games.

I think England possesses two fly-halves who can do the job, though Smith's defensive work combined with everything else, it makes him the more complete versatile player.

Defensive System

It also means you don't have to adjust your defensive system while fielding an assertive player occupying the playmaker channel, rather than an individual being a little more passive.

You could also present compelling arguments favoring Ford beginning with Smith coming off substitution.

Numerous factors occurring privately, however the coaches decide to go, it will give New Zealand difficulties.

This hasn't consistently represented the situation against the All Blacks, when attention was simply on picking the right player.

On this occasion, whichever fly-half selected can put the All Blacks under real pressure.

Fin's ability to pick the right kick while delivering enabling possible 50-20 can take all the stress away from England.