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In expert analysis, the young playmaker has demonstrated that he merits the starting position as England's fly-half against New Zealand on Saturday.

The Northampton Saints star delivered arguably the best defensive performance we have seen by an English playmaker in several years.

His courageous approach through regularly completing his tackles versus an aggressive Fijian team was impressive.

His tactical control was also immense - he demonstrated an excellent balance of skill and control, while executing some strong choices when things didn't proceed as expected in the first half.

Tackling Prowess Coupled with Tactical Leadership

His capacity to calm the team tactically while making big calls is something he has truly nailed.

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

I believe the manager the England coach views it that way as well, because Fin has demonstrated his capability in big international games.

Squad Decisions Amid Rivalry

The experienced fly-half began last Saturday against Australia due to captaincy considerations, and part of that choice was to provide continuity while acknowledging his performance from the tour to South America.

However, the national team's showing versus the Pacific Islanders was a significant step up from the performance against Australia.

Australia were defeated in Italy last weekend, therefore we must not get too carried away about that victory, which should have been more comprehensive considering how off the pace Australia were.

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 - looking ahead 24 months, alongside Ford challenging him while providing backup, I think Smith will find himself in a very strong position as a player.

The Harlequins star must also be considered as an option when appropriate and versus the right opposition.

He is developing in his career while beginning to establish himself, but he also requires liberty to demonstrate his distinctive qualities.

Bench Impact

New Zealand brought on their impact player, who scored the decisive score defeating Scotland, demonstrating the importance of possessing players who can make a real impact from the bench.

That kind of presence might represent the difference between winning the global tournament or not.

McKenzie watches the game unfold from the bench and thinks about how to create a difference when he comes on.

His choices and error rate have enhanced significantly from his initial career.

Role Discussion

If we can get Smith to be that kind of impactful player, then having him among substitutes might prove beneficial.

However, at the moment I believe he represents the solution in the number fifteen position, making it a role remaining up for grabs.

The All Blacks are likely to punt to challenge England's defensive line, therefore it must remain impenetrable.

This role requiring transforming into a genuine asset, in defense while regarding offensive transitions threat.

Right now, I believe Smith is a full-back in top-tier rugby.

I find it difficult to see the advantage of playing him in that position.

I want the ball under his control as much as possible, though I think that should be among starters, especially during the last 20 minutes.

Innate Qualities

There are obviously numerous similarities between Ford with Smith.

Fin has the capacity to make the correct decisions during tense moments - his natural reactions represent traits you can really taught.

I recall as he received possession during one phase just inside his own half appearing like it could be on if they swung it wide.

However during these milliseconds he calculated they needed to turn Fiji round since England were leading points-wise, so he kicked to pressure the opponents and turn the screw.

That's the sort of fly-half play that wins championships and wins World Cups.

Complete Package

He also has that calmness under pressure directing teammates around him, while recognizing that he doesn't constantly serve to be the first receiver.

I want to see him given the chance to show this at elite standards soon, similar to George Ford accomplish, particularly during club level repeatedly and week out.

In Argentina, the experienced fly-half similarly excelled during challenging situations, previously one might suggest there have been times he has not quite delivered in the very highest-pressure matches.

I believe we have playmaking options capable of performing the role, though Smith's defence combined with additional qualities, it makes him the better-rounded all-round performer.

Tactical Setup

This also indicates you don't have to adjust your defensive system while fielding an assertive player in the fly-half channel, rather than an individual being somewhat passive.

You could also present compelling arguments favoring Ford beginning with Smith coming off substitution.

Numerous factors occurring behind closed doors, but whichever way the management decide to go, this will present the opponents difficulties.

This hasn't consistently represented the narrative against the All Blacks, when attention concentrated solely on selecting the optimal individual.

This time, whichever fly-half selected will pressure the All Blacks under real pressure.

Smith's capacity to pick the right kick and execute for a potential territorial gains can take all the stress off the national team.