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In expert analysis, Fin Smith has shown that he merits the first-choice spot for the national team's fly-half versus New Zealand this weekend.

The Northampton Saints star produced arguably the most impressive defensive display we have seen by an English fly-half in several years.

How he fronted up by consistently making his tackles versus a physical Fiji side was impressive.

His game management was also immense - he showed a perfect blend of skill and control, while executing some strong decisions during moments were not going to plan in the first half.

Tackling Prowess Coupled with Tactical Leadership

His ability to calm the squad strategically and make important decisions is something he has really nailed.

In my opinion, the young fly-half is England's primary fly-half and he should start against New Zealand this weekend.

I believe head coach the England coach views it similarly too, because Fin has demonstrated his capability during important Test matches.

Team Selection and Competition

The experienced fly-half started last Saturday versus the Wallabies due to captaincy considerations, and part of that decision was to provide consistency while acknowledging his performance during the visit of Argentina.

But England's showing versus the Pacific Islanders represented a marked improvement from the performance against Australia.

Australia were defeated on Italian soil last weekend, therefore we must avoid becoming too carried away about that victory, that could have been by a larger margin given how off the pace Australia performed.

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

Long-term Potential

The young playmaker remains just 23 - looking ahead 24 months, alongside Ford pushing him while providing backup, I think Fin will be in a very strong position as a player.

The Harlequins star also has to be regarded as an option at the right time and against the right opposition.

He's progressing as a player while beginning to find his feet, but he also needs the freedom to show his unique qualities.

Bench Impact

New Zealand introduced their impact player, who registered the match-winning score defeating the Scottish team, demonstrating the significance of possessing individuals capable of creating genuine influence as substitutes.

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

McKenzie watches the game unfold from the bench while considering regarding ways to create a difference upon entering.

His choices and mistake frequency have enhanced significantly since his early career.

Positional Debate

If we can get Smith to be that kind influential player, including him in the backfield could be beneficial.

Nonetheless, currently I believe Marcus represents the solution in the number fifteen position, so that is a role remaining up for grabs.

The All Blacks are likely to punt testing the English backfield, so it has to be watertight.

It is a position requiring to become a real strength, both defensively while regarding of the counter-attack danger.

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

I struggle to see the advantage of playing him in that position.

I prefer possession in his hands frequently, though I think this should occur among starters, particularly during the last quarter.

Natural Instincts

Clearly there exist a lot of parallels between Ford and Fin Smith.

Fin has the capacity executing the correct choices under pressure - his natural reactions are not something that can be taught.

I recall when he got the ball during one phase just inside his own half and it looked that opportunity existed on if they spread play.

However during these milliseconds he calculated the team required reversing the opposition as we are up on the scoreboard, so he kicked it to pin them back applying pressure.

This represents the type of fly-half play securing titles while claiming global tournaments.

Complete Package

He additionally possesses that calmness under pressure to organise the players around him, and the understanding that he doesn't constantly serve to be the first option.

I want to see him given the chance to show this at elite level next week, just as we have seen the veteran do, particularly during domestic matches repeatedly and week out.

During the South American tour, Ford similarly excelled during challenging circumstances, previously one might suggest there have been times where he didn't fully delivered in the very highest-pressure matches.

I think England possesses playmaking options capable of performing the job, but with Fin's defence combined with additional qualities, it makes him the more complete versatile player.

Tactical Setup

It also means there's no need to adjust your defensive system while fielding an assertive player occupying the playmaker channel, instead of someone who is a little more reserved.

One might make a strong case for Ford starting with Smith entering from the bench.

Numerous considerations occurring behind closed doors, however the coaches choose to proceed, it will give New Zealand difficulties.

That has not always been the narrative against the All Blacks, when attention was simply on picking the optimal individual.

On this occasion, either playmaker selected will pressure New Zealand significantly.

Smith's capacity to pick the right kick while delivering enabling possible 50-20 might relieve pressure off England.