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In expert analysis, the young playmaker has demonstrated that he merits the starting position as England's number ten versus the All Blacks this weekend.

Fin Smith delivered arguably the best defensive display observed from an England fly-half in several years.

His courageous approach through regularly completing his tackles against a physical Fijian team was impressive.

His game management proved exceptional - he demonstrated a perfect blend of finesse and composure, while executing some strong decisions when things didn't proceed to plan during the opening period.

Defensive Excellence Coupled with Tactical Command

His capacity to calm the squad strategically while making big calls is something he has really mastered.

In my opinion, Fin Smith represents England's number one playmaker and he should start versus the All Blacks this weekend.

I think the manager Steve Borthwick sees it that way as well, because Fin has demonstrated he can perform in big international games.

Squad Decisions Amid Rivalry

The experienced fly-half began the previous weekend versus the Wallabies for leadership reasons, with some aspect of that decision was to provide consistency while acknowledging his performance from the tour of Argentina.

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

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

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

Long-term Potential

Fin Smith remains just 23 - projecting forward two years, with Ford challenging him while providing backup, I think Fin will be in an excellent place as a player.

The Harlequins star also has to be considered as a possibility at the right time and versus the right opposition.

He is developing in his career and is starting to establish himself, though he needs the freedom to show his unique qualities.

Substitute Influence

The All Blacks brought on Damian McKenzie, who registered the decisive score to beat Scotland, and that shows the importance of having players capable of creating a real impact as substitutes.

Such type of player might represent the difference separating victory the global tournament from failure.

The All Blacks substitute observes the match develop from the bench and thinks regarding ways to create an impact when he comes on.

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

Positional Debate

Should we develop Marcus to be that kind influential performer, including him among substitutes might prove beneficial.

However, currently I believe Marcus is the answer at full-back, so that is a position that is still up for grabs.

New Zealand are likely to punt testing the English backfield, so it has to be watertight.

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 prefer the ball under his control frequently, but I believe that should be in the front line, especially during the last 20 minutes.

Natural Instincts

There are obviously a lot of similarities between Ford with Smith.

Fin has the ability to make the correct choices under pressure - his instincts are not something you can really coach.

I remember as he received the ball during one phase just inside his own half and it looked that opportunity existed should they spread play.

But in those split-seconds he calculated the team required reversing Fiji round as we are up on the scoreboard, so he kicked to pressure the opponents and turn pressure.

This represents the type of fly-half play securing titles and wins global tournaments.

All-round Ability

He additionally possesses composure during intensity to organise teammates around him, and the understanding that he mustn't always need as primary receiver.

I hope to witness him given the opportunity demonstrating that at the highest standards soon, just as we have seen George Ford do, particularly during club level repeatedly consistently.

During the South American tour, Ford also stood up in difficult situations, where historically one might suggest there have been times where he didn't fully done so in the very highest-pressure matches.

I believe England possesses playmaking options capable of performing the role, though Smith's defensive work combined with everything else, it makes him the better-rounded versatile performer.

Defensive System

It also means you don't have to modify the defensive structure while fielding an assertive player occupying the playmaker position, instead of someone who is a little more reserved.

You could also present compelling arguments for Ford starting with Smith coming off substitution.

There are so many considerations that go on privately, however the coaches decide to go, it will give the opponents difficulties.

This hasn't consistently represented the narrative facing New Zealand, when attention concentrated solely on selecting the optimal individual.

This time, either playmaker selected can put New Zealand significantly.

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