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

The Northampton Saints star delivered arguably the most impressive defensive performance observed from an England fly-half for quite some time.

How he fronted up through regularly completing his tackles versus an aggressive Fiji side stood out remarkably.

His tactical control proved exceptional - he showed a perfect blend of skill and control, while executing several crucial decisions during moments didn't proceed as expected in the first half.

Tackling Prowess and Strategic Command

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

From my perspective, the young fly-half represents England's primary fly-half and deserves to start versus New Zealand next week.

I think head coach Steve Borthwick sees it similarly as well, since Smith has demonstrated his capability during important international games.

Squad Decisions Amid Rivalry

The experienced fly-half started last Saturday against Australia for leadership considerations, and part of that choice aimed at ensuring consistency and reward his form from the tour of Argentina.

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

Australia lost on Italian soil on Saturday, therefore we must not get overly excited with that win, that could have been by a larger margin given how below par Australia were.

The Fijian team, by contrast, were much more dangerous while offering a much more difficult test.

Long-term Potential

Fin Smith remains just 23 - looking ahead two years, alongside Ford challenging him but also offering backup, I believe Smith will find himself in a very strong place as a player.

Marcus Smith must also be regarded as an option at the right time and versus the right opposition.

He's progressing as a player while beginning to find his feet, though he requires liberty to show his unique attributes.

Substitute Influence

New Zealand brought on their impact player, who scored the match-winning score defeating Scotland, and that shows the importance of having players capable of creating genuine influence as substitutes.

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

McKenzie watches the game develop while substituted while considering about how to create a difference upon entering.

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

Role Discussion

Should we develop Marcus as that kind influential player, including him among substitutes could be valuable.

However, currently I believe he is the answer in the number fifteen position, making it a role that is still up for grabs.

New Zealand will kick to challenge England's defensive line, so it has remain watertight.

It is a position that needs transforming into a real strength, in defense and in terms offensive transitions threat.

Currently, I believe Marcus is a full-back in top-tier rugby.

I struggle to see the advantage fielding him in that position.

I prefer the ball under his control frequently, but I believe this should occur in the front line, especially in the final 20 minutes.

Innate Qualities

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

Fin has the capacity executing the correct choices under pressure - his instincts represent traits you can really coach.

I remember when he got the ball during one phase within his territory and it looked like it could be should they spread play.

However during these split-seconds he thought they needed reversing the opposition as we are leading points-wise, so he kicked it to pin them back and turn the screw.

That's the sort of fly-half play securing championships while claiming global tournaments.

All-round Ability

He additionally possesses that calmness under pressure directing the players nearby, and the understanding that he mustn't always need as primary option.

I hope to witness him given the chance demonstrating that at the highest standards soon, similar to the veteran do, particularly during domestic matches week in consistently.

In Argentina, Ford also stood up during challenging situations, previously one might suggest there have been times he has not quite done so in the very highest-pressure matches.

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

Defensive System

It also means there's no need to adjust the defensive structure while fielding someone aggressive in the fly-half channel, instead of someone who is somewhat reserved.

You could also make a strong case for Ford starting with Smith coming off substitution.

Numerous factors that go on privately, however the management decide to go, it will give New Zealand problems.

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

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

Fin's ability selecting optimal kicks and execute for a potential 50-20 can take all the stress away from England.