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In expert analysis, the young playmaker has demonstrated that he merits the first-choice spot for the national team's fly-half against the All Blacks this weekend.

The Northampton Saints star delivered without doubt the best defensive performance we have seen by an English fly-half for quite some time.

His courageous approach through regularly completing defensive hits versus a physical Fijian team was impressive.

His game management proved exceptional - he showed a perfect blend of skill and control, and made some strong decisions during moments didn't proceed to plan in the first half.

Defensive Excellence Coupled with Tactical Leadership

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

From my perspective, the young fly-half represents England's number one playmaker and deserves to begin versus the All Blacks next week.

I believe head coach the England coach sees it similarly too, since Smith has demonstrated he can perform in big international games.

Squad Decisions Amid Rivalry

The experienced fly-half started the previous weekend versus the Wallabies for leadership considerations, and part of that choice was to provide continuity and reward his performance during the visit of Argentina.

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

The Wallabies were defeated in Italy last weekend, so we should avoid becoming too carried away with that win, which should have been more comprehensive considering how off the pace Australia performed.

The Fijian team, by contrast, proved significantly dangerous and presented a far tougher test.

Long-term Potential

The young playmaker remains just twenty-three - looking ahead two years, alongside Ford pushing him but also offering backup, I believe Smith will find himself in an excellent place as a player.

Marcus Smith must also be considered as a possibility when appropriate and against suitable opponents.

He is developing as a player and is starting to establish himself, though he requires liberty to show his distinctive attributes.

Bench Impact

The All Blacks introduced Damian McKenzie, who scored the decisive try defeating the Scottish team, demonstrating the significance of possessing individuals capable of creating genuine influence from the bench.

Such type of presence can be the difference between winning a World Cup or not.

The All Blacks substitute observes the match unfold from the bench and thinks about how he can make an impact upon entering.

His choices and error rate have enhanced significantly since his early career.

Role Discussion

Should we develop Smith to be that kind influential player, including him among substitutes might prove beneficial.

However, at the moment I don't think Marcus is the answer in the number fifteen position, so that is a position remaining up for grabs.

New Zealand will kick testing the English defensive line, so it has remain impenetrable.

This role that needs to become a real strength, both defensively while regarding offensive transitions threat.

Right now, I don't think Smith is a full-back in top-tier rugby.

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

I want possession in his hands frequently, though I think this should occur in the front line, especially in the final 20 minutes.

Innate Qualities

There are obviously numerous similarities comparing Ford and Fin Smith.

Fin has the capacity executing the correct choices under pressure - his instincts are not something that can be coach.

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

However during these split-seconds he calculated they needed to turn Fiji round as we are leading points-wise, so he kicked to pressure them back applying the screw.

That's the sort of playmaking that wins championships while claiming global tournaments.

Complete Package

He additionally possesses composure during intensity directing the players nearby, and the understanding that he doesn't constantly serve to be the first receiver.

I hope to witness him receiving the chance demonstrating that at the highest standards soon, just as we have seen George Ford do, especially at domestic matches week in consistently.

In Argentina, Ford also stood up during challenging situations, where historically you could argue occasions existed where he didn't fully done so in the very highest-pressure matches.

I think England possesses playmaking options who can do the role, though Smith's defensive work on top of everything else, it makes him the more complete versatile performer.

Tactical Setup

It also means you don't have to modify the defensive structure while fielding someone aggressive in the fly-half position, instead of an individual being a little more reserved.

One might present compelling arguments for Ford starting and Fin Smith entering from the bench.

Numerous factors that go on behind closed doors, however the coaches choose to proceed, it will give New Zealand problems.

That has not always been the situation facing New Zealand, where the focus concentrated solely on picking the right player.

This time, whichever fly-half they choose will pressure New Zealand under real pressure.

Fin's ability selecting optimal kicks and execute enabling possible 50-20 might relieve all the stress away from England.