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In expert analysis, the young playmaker has demonstrated why he deserves the first-choice spot as England's fly-half against the All Blacks on Saturday.

Fin Smith delivered arguably the most impressive defensive display we have seen by an English playmaker for quite some time.

How he fronted up by consistently making defensive hits versus an aggressive Fiji side was impressive.

His game management was also immense - he demonstrated a perfect blend of finesse and control, while executing several crucial choices when things were not going as expected in the first half.

Tackling Prowess Coupled with Tactical Leadership

His capacity to settle the team tactically and make important decisions represents an aspect he has truly mastered.

From my perspective, Fin Smith is England's number one fly-half and he should begin against the All Blacks this weekend.

I think the manager the England coach views it similarly too, because Fin has proven his capability during important international games.

Team Selection and Competition

The experienced fly-half started the previous weekend against Australia for leadership reasons, and part of that decision was to provide continuity and reward his form during the visit to South America.

However, the national team's performance against Fiji represented a marked improvement compared to the display against Australia.

The Wallabies were defeated in Italy on Saturday, therefore we must not get overly excited about that victory, which should have been more comprehensive given how below par the Australians performed.

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

Future Prospects

The young playmaker remains just twenty-three - looking ahead 24 months, with Ford pushing him while providing support, I believe Fin will be in an excellent position as a player.

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

He is developing in his career while beginning to establish himself, but he also requires liberty to show his unique qualities.

Substitute Influence

The All Blacks brought on Damian McKenzie, who scored the match-winning try defeating the Scottish team, demonstrating the importance of having individuals capable of creating genuine influence from the bench.

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

The All Blacks substitute observes the game develop from the bench and thinks about how to create an impact upon entering.

His choices and error rate have improved substantially from his initial career.

Role Discussion

If we can get Marcus as such type influential player, then having him in the backfield might prove beneficial.

However, currently I believe Marcus represents the solution at full-back, making it a role that is still up for grabs.

New Zealand are likely to punt to challenge the English defensive line, so it has remain impenetrable.

This role requiring to become a real strength, in defense and in terms offensive transitions danger.

Currently, I believe Marcus is a full-back at the highest level.

I struggle to identify the benefit of playing him there.

I prefer the ball in his hands as much as possible, though I think this should occur in the front line, particularly during the last 20 minutes.

Natural Instincts

Clearly there exist numerous parallels between Ford with Smith.

Fin has the capacity to make right choices under pressure - his natural reactions represent traits you can really coach.

I remember when he got possession at one stage just inside his territory appearing like it could be should they swung it wide.

However during these milliseconds he calculated the team required to turn the opposition since England were leading points-wise, so he kicked it to pin the opponents and turn the screw.

This represents the type of playmaking that wins championships and wins World Cups.

Complete Package

He additionally possesses that calmness under pressure directing teammates around him, and the understanding that he mustn't constantly serve as primary receiver.

I hope to witness him receiving the opportunity to show that at the highest level next week, similar to the veteran do, especially at club level repeatedly consistently.

During the South American tour, Ford similarly excelled during challenging circumstances, where historically one might suggest there have been times where he didn't fully delivered during extremely tense games.

I think we have playmaking options who can do the job, though Smith's defensive work combined with additional qualities, establishes him as the more complete versatile player.

Defensive System

This also indicates you don't have to modify the defensive structure when you have someone aggressive occupying the playmaker channel, rather than someone who is somewhat passive.

You could also make a strong case for Ford starting and Fin Smith coming off the bench.

There are so many considerations that go on behind closed doors, but whichever way the management choose to proceed, this will present New Zealand difficulties.

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

On this occasion, either playmaker selected can put New Zealand significantly.

Smith's capacity selecting optimal kicks and execute for a potential 50-20 can take pressure off England.