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In expert analysis, Fin Smith has shown that he merits the starting position as England's fly-half versus the All Blacks on Saturday.

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

How he fronted up by consistently making defensive hits versus a physical Fijian team stood out remarkably.

His tactical control proved exceptional - he demonstrated an excellent balance of skill and control, and made several crucial decisions during moments were not going to plan in the first half.

Defensive Excellence Coupled with Tactical Leadership

His ability to calm the squad strategically and make big calls represents an aspect he has truly nailed.

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

I believe head coach the England coach sees it that way too, since Smith has demonstrated his capability in big Test matches.

Team Selection and Competition

George Ford began the previous weekend against Australia for leadership considerations, and part of that decision was to provide consistency while acknowledging his performance during the visit of Argentina.

However, the national team's performance versus the Pacific Islanders represented a marked step up compared to the display against Australia.

The Wallabies lost on Italian soil on Saturday, therefore we must avoid becoming too carried away about that victory, that could have been more comprehensive considering how below par Australia were.

The Fijian team, on the other hand, were much more dangerous and presented a far tougher test.

Long-term Potential

Fin Smith is still only twenty-three - projecting forward two years, alongside Ford challenging him but also offering support, I believe Fin will be in an excellent place as a player.

Marcus Smith must also be considered as a possibility when appropriate and against the right opposition.

He's progressing as a player and is starting to find his feet, but he also requires liberty to show his unique attributes.

Substitute Influence

New Zealand introduced their impact player, who registered the match-winning score defeating the Scottish team, and that shows the importance of possessing players capable of creating a real impact as substitutes.

That kind of presence might represent the difference separating victory a World Cup from failure.

McKenzie watches the game develop from the bench while considering regarding ways he can make a difference upon entering.

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

Role Discussion

If we can get Smith as such type influential performer, then having him in the backfield could be beneficial.

However, at the moment I don't think Marcus is the answer at full-back, so that is a role that is still up for grabs.

The All Blacks will kick testing England's defensive line, so it has remain impenetrable.

This role that needs transforming into a genuine asset, both defensively and in terms offensive transitions threat.

Currently, I believe Smith functions as full-back in top-tier rugby.

I find it difficult to identify the advantage fielding him there.

I want the ball in his hands as much as possible, but I believe this should occur in the front line, especially in the final 20 minutes.

Natural Instincts

Clearly there exist numerous similarities comparing Ford with Smith.

Smith possesses the capacity executing right choices under pressure - his instincts are not something you can really taught.

I remember when he got the ball at one stage just inside his own half and it looked that opportunity existed on if they swung it wide.

However during these split-seconds he calculated the team required reversing the opposition since England were up on the scoreboard, so he kicked to pressure them back and turn the screw.

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

Complete Package

He also has composure during intensity directing the players nearby, while recognizing that he mustn't constantly serve to be the first receiver.

I hope to witness him given the chance demonstrating that at the highest level next week, just as we have seen the veteran do, especially at domestic matches week in consistently.

During the South American tour, the experienced fly-half also stood up in difficult circumstances, previously one might suggest occasions existed where he didn't fully delivered during extremely tense matches.

I think England possesses two fly-halves capable of performing the job, but with Fin's defensive work combined with everything else, it makes him the more complete versatile performer.

Tactical Setup

This also indicates there's no need to modify your defensive system while fielding someone aggressive occupying the playmaker position, instead of an individual being somewhat passive.

You could also present compelling arguments favoring Ford beginning and Fin Smith entering from the bench.

There are so many factors that go on privately, but whichever way the coaches decide to go, it will give New Zealand difficulties.

That has not always been the narrative facing New Zealand, when attention concentrated solely on selecting the right player.

On this occasion, whichever fly-half selected will pressure New Zealand under real pressure.

Smith's capacity to pick optimal kicks and execute for a potential 50-20 can take all the stress away from the national team.