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In expert analysis, Fin Smith has demonstrated why he deserves the first-choice spot for the national team's fly-half against the All Blacks on Saturday.

The Northampton Saints star produced without doubt the most impressive defensive display observed by an English playmaker in several years.

His courageous approach through regularly completing his tackles versus a physical Fiji side was impressive.

His game management proved exceptional - he demonstrated a perfect blend of finesse and control, while executing some strong decisions when things didn't proceed to plan in the first half.

Tackling Prowess Coupled with Tactical Leadership

His capacity to calm the squad strategically while making big calls represents an aspect he has truly mastered.

From my perspective, the young fly-half is England's number one playmaker and deserves to start versus New Zealand next week.

I believe head coach the England coach views it that way as well, because Fin has proven he can perform during important international games.

Team Selection and Competition

The experienced fly-half began last Saturday versus the Wallabies for leadership reasons, with some aspect of that choice aimed at ensuring continuity while acknowledging his form from the tour of Argentina.

But England's performance versus the Pacific Islanders represented a marked improvement compared to the display versus the Wallabies.

The Wallabies lost in Italy on Saturday, so we should avoid becoming too carried away with that win, which should have been more comprehensive considering how below par Australia performed.

Fiji, on the other hand, proved significantly threatening while offering a much more difficult challenge.

Future Prospects

Fin Smith is still only 23 - looking ahead 24 months, alongside Ford challenging him but also offering backup, I think Smith will find himself in an excellent position in his career.

The Harlequins star must also be regarded as a possibility when appropriate and against suitable opponents.

He is developing as a player and is starting to find his feet, though he requires liberty to demonstrate his distinctive qualities.

Bench Impact

The All Blacks brought on their impact player, who scored the match-winning score to beat the Scottish team, demonstrating the importance of having individuals who can make a real impact from the bench.

Such type of player can be the difference separating victory the global tournament from failure.

McKenzie observes the game develop while substituted and thinks about how to create a difference when he comes on.

His decision-making and mistake frequency have enhanced substantially since his early career.

Role Discussion

If we can get Marcus to be that kind of impactful performer, then having him in the backfield could be valuable.

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

New Zealand will kick testing England's backfield, so it has to be impenetrable.

This role requiring transforming into a real strength, both defensively and in terms offensive transitions threat.

Right now, I believe Smith functions as full-back at the highest level.

I struggle to see the advantage of playing him there.

I prefer the ball in his hands as much as possible, though I think that should be in the front line, particularly in the final 20 minutes.

Natural Instincts

There are obviously numerous similarities comparing Ford with Smith.

Fin has the capacity to make the correct choices during tense moments - his instincts are not something you can really taught.

I recall as he received the ball during one phase just inside his territory appearing like it could be should they spread play.

But in those split-seconds he thought the team required reversing Fiji round as we are up on the scoreboard, so he kicked to pressure the opponents and turn the screw.

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

All-round Ability

He additionally possesses that calmness under pressure to organise teammates nearby, while recognizing that he mustn't always need as primary receiver.

I want to see him given the opportunity demonstrating this at elite level next week, similar to the veteran do, particularly during club level week in and week out.

During the South American tour, Ford similarly excelled in difficult situations, previously you could argue there have been times he has not quite delivered during extremely tense matches.

I believe we have two fly-halves who can do the role, though Smith's defence combined with additional qualities, establishes him as the better-rounded versatile player.

Defensive System

It also means there's no need to modify the defensive structure when you have someone aggressive in the fly-half channel, rather than an individual being somewhat passive.

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

Numerous factors occurring privately, however the management choose to proceed, it will give the opponents problems.

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

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

Fin's ability selecting the right kick and execute for a potential 50-20 can take all the stress off England.