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According to rugby specialists, the young playmaker has shown that he merits the starting position for the national team's number ten against the All Blacks on Saturday.

Fin Smith delivered arguably the best defensive performance we have seen by an English playmaker in several years.

His courageous approach by consistently making defensive hits against an aggressive Fiji side was impressive.

His tactical control proved exceptional - he showed a perfect blend of finesse and composure, while executing several crucial choices during moments didn't proceed to plan during the opening period.

Tackling Prowess Coupled with Tactical Command

His ability to calm the team strategically and make big calls is something he has truly mastered.

In my opinion, the young fly-half represents England's number one playmaker and deserves to begin versus New Zealand next week.

I think the manager the England coach views it similarly too, because Fin has proven his capability during important Test matches.

Team Selection and Competition

The experienced fly-half started the previous weekend against Australia due to captaincy reasons, with some aspect of that choice was to provide continuity and reward his form from the tour of Argentina.

But England's performance against Fiji represented a marked step up compared to the display against Australia.

Australia were defeated in Italy last weekend, so we should avoid becoming too carried away with that win, which should have been more comprehensive given how off the pace Australia were.

The Fijian team, by contrast, proved significantly dangerous and presented a far tougher challenge.

Long-term Potential

Fin Smith is still only 23 - projecting forward two years, alongside Ford challenging him but also offering backup, I think Fin will be in a very strong place as a player.

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

He is developing as a player and is starting to find his feet, though he needs the freedom to demonstrate his distinctive qualities.

Substitute Influence

New Zealand brought on Damian McKenzie, who registered the decisive score defeating Scotland, and that shows the significance of having individuals who can make a real impact as substitutes.

That kind of presence can be the difference between winning a World Cup or not.

McKenzie observes the match unfold from the bench while considering regarding ways he can make an impact upon entering.

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

Role Discussion

If we can get Marcus as such type influential performer, then having him in the backfield might prove beneficial.

However, at the moment I don't think he is the answer at full-back, so that is a position that is still unclaimed.

New Zealand are likely to punt testing the English defensive line, so it has to be impenetrable.

This role that needs transforming into a real strength, in defense while regarding offensive transitions danger.

Right now, I believe Smith functions as full-back at the highest level.

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

I want the ball in his hands frequently, but I believe this should occur among starters, particularly in the final 20 minutes.

Natural Instincts

Clearly there exist numerous similarities comparing Ford and Fin Smith.

Smith possesses the ability executing the correct decisions during tense moments - his instincts are not something that can be coach.

I remember as he received the ball at one stage within his territory appearing like it could be on if they spread play.

However during these milliseconds he calculated they needed to turn the opposition since England were up on the scoreboard, so he kicked it to pin them back and turn pressure.

This represents the type of playmaking securing titles and wins World Cups.

All-round Ability

He also has composure during intensity to organise the players around him, while recognizing that he doesn't constantly serve to be the first option.

I hope to witness him receiving the opportunity demonstrating that at the highest standards soon, similar to George Ford accomplish, particularly during domestic matches repeatedly and week out.

During the South American tour, Ford also stood up during challenging situations, where historically you could argue occasions existed where he didn't fully delivered in the very highest-pressure matches.

I believe we have two fly-halves who can do the role, though Smith's defence on top of everything else, it makes him the more complete versatile player.

Defensive System

It also means you don't have to adjust your defensive system when you have an assertive player occupying the playmaker position, rather than someone who is a little more passive.

One might present compelling arguments for Ford starting with Smith entering from the bench.

Numerous considerations occurring behind closed doors, however the coaches decide to go, it will give New Zealand difficulties.

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

On this occasion, either playmaker they choose can put New Zealand significantly.

Fin's ability to pick optimal kicks while delivering enabling possible territorial gains might relieve pressure away from England.