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In expert analysis, Fin Smith has demonstrated that he merits the first-choice spot as England's fly-half versus the All Blacks this weekend.

Fin Smith produced without doubt the most impressive defensive display we have seen by an English fly-half for quite some time.

How he fronted up through regularly completing defensive hits against a physical Fijian team was impressive.

His tactical control was also immense - he demonstrated a perfect blend of finesse and composure, while executing some strong decisions during moments were not going to plan during the opening period.

Tackling Prowess Coupled with Tactical Leadership

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

In my opinion, Fin Smith represents England's primary playmaker and he should begin versus the All Blacks next week.

I believe head coach Steve Borthwick sees it similarly as well, because Fin has proven his capability during important Test matches.

Team Selection Amid Rivalry

The experienced fly-half began the previous weekend versus the Wallabies due to captaincy considerations, and part of that choice was to provide consistency and reward his performance from the tour to South America.

But England's performance versus the Pacific Islanders represented a marked improvement from the performance versus the Wallabies.

Australia lost in Italy on Saturday, therefore we must avoid becoming too carried away about that victory, which should have been more comprehensive given how off the pace Australia performed.

Fiji, by contrast, were much more threatening while offering a far tougher test.

Long-term Potential

Fin Smith is still only 23 - projecting forward two years, with Ford challenging him while providing backup, I think Smith will find himself in an excellent place as a player.

Marcus Smith must also be regarded as an option when appropriate and against the right opposition.

He's progressing as a player while beginning to establish himself, though he requires liberty to show his unique qualities.

Bench Impact

New Zealand introduced their impact player, who registered the decisive score to beat Scotland, and that shows the importance of possessing individuals capable of creating a real impact from the bench.

That kind of player might represent the difference between winning the global tournament or not.

McKenzie observes the match develop from the bench while considering about how he can make a difference upon entering.

His decision-making and error rate have improved significantly since his early professional days.

Role Discussion

Should we develop Smith to be that kind of impactful performer, then having him in the backfield could be valuable.

Nonetheless, at the moment I don't think he is the answer in the number fifteen position, making it a role remaining up for grabs.

New Zealand are likely to punt testing England's defensive line, so it has remain watertight.

It is a position requiring to become a genuine asset, both defensively while regarding offensive transitions threat.

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

I find it difficult to identify the benefit of playing him in that position.

I prefer possession under his control frequently, though I think that should be in the front line, especially in the final 20 minutes.

Innate Qualities

There are obviously numerous similarities between Ford with Smith.

Fin has the ability to make right choices during tense moments - his instincts are not something that can be coach.

I remember as he received possession during one phase just inside his own half and it looked that opportunity existed should they swung it wide.

However during these milliseconds he thought they needed to turn Fiji round as we are up on the scoreboard, so he kicked to pressure them back applying the screw.

That's the sort of playmaking that wins championships while claiming World Cups.

Complete Package

He also has that calmness during intensity to organise teammates nearby, and the understanding that he doesn't constantly serve to be the first receiver.

I hope to witness him receiving the opportunity demonstrating that at the highest level next week, similar to the veteran accomplish, especially at domestic matches week in consistently.

In Argentina, the experienced fly-half similarly excelled during challenging circumstances, previously you could argue occasions existed where he didn't fully done so in the very highest-pressure games.

I think we have playmaking options who can do the role, but with Fin's defence on top of everything else, establishes him as the more complete versatile player.

Tactical Setup

It also means there's no need to modify your defensive system when you have an assertive player occupying the playmaker position, rather than someone who is a little more passive.

One might make a strong case favoring Ford beginning with Smith entering from substitution.

There are so many factors occurring behind closed doors, but whichever way the management choose to proceed, 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.

This time, either playmaker they choose can put the All Blacks under real pressure.

Smith's capacity selecting the right kick while delivering enabling possible 50-20 can take all the stress away from England.