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According to rugby specialists, Fin Smith has shown why he deserves the first-choice spot as England's number ten against New Zealand this weekend.

Fin Smith delivered arguably the most impressive defensive performance we have seen from an England fly-half in several years.

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

His tactical control proved exceptional - he demonstrated a perfect blend of skill and control, while executing several crucial choices when things were not going to plan during the opening period.

Tackling Prowess Coupled with Tactical Leadership

His ability to settle the team tactically and make big calls represents an aspect he has truly mastered.

In my opinion, the young fly-half is England's number one playmaker and he should begin against the All Blacks this weekend.

I believe the manager Steve Borthwick views it similarly too, since Smith has demonstrated he can perform during important Test matches.

Squad Decisions Amid Rivalry

The experienced fly-half began the previous weekend versus the Wallabies due to captaincy reasons, and part of that choice aimed at ensuring consistency and reward his performance from the tour of Argentina.

But England's showing versus the Pacific Islanders was a significant improvement compared to the display against Australia.

Australia lost on Italian soil on Saturday, therefore we must avoid becoming overly excited about that victory, that could have been more comprehensive considering how off the pace Australia performed.

Fiji, by contrast, were much more threatening and presented a far tougher challenge.

Long-term Potential

Fin Smith is still only twenty-three - looking ahead 24 months, with Ford challenging him but also offering support, I think Fin will be in an excellent place in his career.

The Harlequins star must also be regarded as a possibility when appropriate and against the right opposition.

He's progressing as a player while beginning to find his feet, though he needs the freedom to demonstrate his distinctive qualities.

Bench Impact

New Zealand brought on Damian McKenzie, who registered the match-winning score to beat the Scottish team, demonstrating the significance of having individuals who can make genuine influence from the bench.

That kind of player might represent the difference separating victory a World Cup or not.

The All Blacks substitute observes the match unfold from the bench while considering about how to create an impact upon entering.

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

Role Discussion

Should we develop Marcus as that kind influential performer, then having him among substitutes could be beneficial.

Nonetheless, currently I don't think he is the answer in the number fifteen position, so that is a role remaining unclaimed.

New Zealand will kick to challenge the English backfield, so it has remain watertight.

This role that needs transforming into a real strength, both defensively and in terms offensive transitions danger.

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

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

I prefer the ball under his control as much as possible, though I think this should occur in the front line, especially during the last quarter.

Innate Qualities

There are obviously numerous similarities comparing Ford and Fin Smith.

Fin has the capacity executing right decisions during tense moments - his natural reactions represent traits that can be taught.

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

But in those split-seconds he thought the team required to turn Fiji round as we are up on the scoreboard, therefore he punted to pressure the opponents applying pressure.

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

Complete Package

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

I want to see him given the chance to show this at elite standards soon, just as we have seen George Ford do, particularly during domestic matches week in and week out.

During the South American tour, the experienced fly-half similarly excelled during challenging situations, where historically you could argue occasions existed he has not quite done so in the very highest-pressure matches.

I think England possesses playmaking options capable of performing the role, but with Fin's defensive work combined with everything else, establishes him as the more complete all-round performer.

Defensive System

This also indicates you don't have to modify the defensive structure when you have an assertive player in the fly-half channel, instead of an individual being somewhat reserved.

One might make a strong case for Ford starting with Smith coming off substitution.

There are so many factors occurring behind closed doors, however the coaches choose to proceed, this will present New Zealand difficulties.

This hasn't consistently represented the situation against the All Blacks, where the focus was simply on picking the optimal individual.

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

Smith's capacity selecting the right kick and execute for a potential 50-20 might relieve pressure away from the national team.