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In expert analysis, the young playmaker has shown that he merits the first-choice spot for the national team's fly-half against New Zealand on Saturday.

The Northampton Saints star delivered without doubt the most impressive defensive performance observed by an English fly-half in several years.

How he fronted up by consistently making defensive hits against a physical Fiji side stood out remarkably.

His game management proved exceptional - he demonstrated an excellent balance of finesse and control, and made some strong choices when things were not going as expected during the opening period.

Defensive Excellence Coupled with Tactical Command

His capacity to settle the squad strategically while making important decisions is something he has truly nailed.

From my perspective, Fin Smith represents England's number one fly-half and deserves to begin against New Zealand this weekend.

I think the manager Steve Borthwick sees it that way as well, because Fin has proven his capability during important international games.

Squad Decisions Amid Rivalry

George Ford began last Saturday versus the Wallabies due to captaincy considerations, with some aspect of that choice was to provide consistency and reward his performance from the tour to South America.

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

The Wallabies were defeated in Italy 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, on the other hand, were much more threatening and presented a far tougher test.

Future Prospects

Fin Smith is still only twenty-three - looking ahead two years, alongside Ford challenging him but also offering backup, I believe 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's progressing as a player and is starting to establish himself, but he also requires liberty to demonstrate his unique qualities.

Substitute Influence

The All Blacks brought on their impact player, who registered the match-winning score to beat the Scottish team, demonstrating the significance of possessing individuals who can make a real impact as substitutes.

Such type of presence can be the deciding factor between winning a World Cup or not.

The All Blacks substitute watches the game unfold while substituted and thinks regarding ways he can make a difference when he comes on.

His choices and error rate have enhanced substantially from his initial professional days.

Positional Debate

If we can get Marcus to be that kind of impactful player, including him among substitutes could be valuable.

However, at the moment I don't think Marcus is the answer at full-back, so that is a role remaining unclaimed.

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

This role that needs to become a real strength, both defensively and in terms offensive transitions threat.

Right now, I don't think Marcus functions as full-back at the highest level.

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

I prefer possession in his hands as much as possible, though I think this should occur among starters, particularly during the last quarter.

Innate Qualities

Clearly there exist a lot of similarities comparing Ford with Smith.

Fin has the capacity to make right choices during tense moments - his natural reactions represent traits that can be taught.

I recall as he received possession at one stage within his territory and it looked that opportunity existed on if they swung it wide.

But in those milliseconds he calculated the team required to turn Fiji round since England were up on the scoreboard, therefore he punted it to pin the opponents and turn pressure.

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

Complete Package

He additionally possesses that calmness under pressure directing teammates around him, while recognizing that he mustn't constantly serve to be the first receiver.

I want to see him receiving the chance demonstrating this at elite standards soon, similar to George Ford accomplish, particularly during domestic matches repeatedly consistently.

During the South American tour, the experienced fly-half similarly excelled in difficult circumstances, where historically you could argue there have been times where he didn't fully delivered during extremely tense matches.

I think England possesses playmaking options capable of performing the role, but with Fin's defensive work on top of additional qualities, establishes him as the better-rounded all-round player.

Tactical Setup

This also indicates you don't have to modify the defensive structure when you have someone aggressive occupying the playmaker channel, instead of an individual being a little more reserved.

You could also make a strong case favoring Ford beginning with Smith entering from the bench.

There are so many considerations occurring behind closed doors, however the coaches choose to proceed, it will give New Zealand problems.

That has not always been the situation against the All Blacks, when attention was simply on picking the right player.

On this occasion, either playmaker they choose will pressure New Zealand significantly.

Smith's capacity to pick the right kick and execute for a potential territorial gains can take pressure off England.