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According to rugby specialists, Fin Smith has demonstrated that he merits the starting position as England's fly-half versus New Zealand on Saturday.

Fin Smith produced arguably the most impressive defensive performance observed by an English fly-half in several years.

His courageous approach through regularly completing defensive hits versus an aggressive Fiji side was impressive.

His tactical control was also immense - he showed a perfect blend of skill and composure, and made several crucial choices during moments were not going to plan during the opening period.

Defensive Excellence Coupled with Tactical Command

His ability to calm the squad tactically and make big calls represents an aspect he has truly nailed.

In my opinion, the young fly-half is England's primary fly-half and deserves to start against the All Blacks next week.

I believe the manager the England coach sees it similarly too, since Smith has demonstrated his capability in big international games.

Team Selection Amid Rivalry

The experienced fly-half started last Saturday against Australia for leadership considerations, and part of that decision aimed at ensuring consistency and reward his form during the visit of Argentina.

However, the national team's performance versus the Pacific Islanders represented a marked step up from the performance against Australia.

Australia lost on Italian soil on Saturday, therefore we must avoid becoming overly excited with that win, which should have been more comprehensive given how off the pace Australia performed.

The Fijian team, on the other hand, were much more threatening and presented a far tougher test.

Future Prospects

Fin Smith is still only 23 - projecting forward two years, with Ford pushing him but also offering backup, I believe Smith will find himself in a very strong position in his career.

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

He's progressing as a player and is starting to find his feet, but he also requires liberty to show his distinctive attributes.

Substitute Influence

New Zealand brought on Damian McKenzie, who scored the decisive try to beat the Scottish team, and that shows the importance of having players who can make a real impact as substitutes.

Such type of presence can be the difference between winning the global tournament or not.

McKenzie observes the match develop from the bench while considering regarding ways he can make a difference upon entering.

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

Positional Debate

Should we develop Smith as such type of impactful performer, including him in the backfield could be beneficial.

However, currently I don't think Marcus represents the solution at full-back, so that is a role remaining unclaimed.

The All Blacks are likely to punt to challenge England's defensive line, so it has to be watertight.

It is a position that needs to become a genuine asset, in defense and in terms offensive transitions danger.

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

I find it difficult to identify the advantage fielding him in that position.

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

Natural Instincts

There are obviously a lot of similarities comparing Ford and Fin Smith.

Smith possesses the ability executing right decisions during tense moments - his instincts represent traits you can really taught.

I recall when he got the ball at one stage within his own half appearing like it could be on if they spread play.

But in those milliseconds he thought they needed to turn the opposition as we are up on the scoreboard, so he kicked it to pin the opponents applying pressure.

This represents the type of playmaking that wins championships and wins global tournaments.

Complete Package

He additionally possesses composure during intensity directing teammates nearby, and the understanding that he doesn't constantly serve as primary option.

I want to see him receiving the chance demonstrating that at the highest standards soon, just as we have seen the veteran do, especially at domestic matches week in consistently.

In Argentina, the experienced fly-half also stood up in difficult situations, where historically one might suggest occasions existed he has not quite done so during extremely tense games.

I think we have playmaking options who can do the job, though Smith's defensive work combined with everything else, it makes him the better-rounded versatile player.

Tactical Setup

It also means you don't have to modify the defensive structure when you have someone aggressive occupying the playmaker position, instead of someone who is a little more reserved.

One might present compelling arguments for Ford starting and Fin Smith coming off substitution.

Numerous considerations that go on privately, but whichever way the management decide to go, this will present New Zealand difficulties.

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

This time, either playmaker they choose can put New Zealand significantly.

Smith's capacity selecting the right kick and execute enabling possible territorial gains can take pressure away from the national team.