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In expert analysis, the young playmaker has shown why he deserves the first-choice spot as England's fly-half versus New Zealand this weekend.

Fin Smith delivered arguably the most impressive defensive display we have seen from an England fly-half for quite some time.

How he fronted up through regularly completing his tackles against a physical Fijian team stood out remarkably.

His tactical control proved exceptional - he demonstrated an excellent balance of skill and control, while executing several crucial decisions when things were not going to plan during the opening period.

Defensive Excellence Coupled with Tactical Command

His capacity to settle the team tactically while making important decisions represents an aspect he has really nailed.

From my perspective, Fin Smith is England's number one playmaker and deserves to start versus New Zealand this weekend.

I think head coach Steve Borthwick sees it similarly too, since Smith has proven his capability during important international games.

Squad Decisions Amid Rivalry

The experienced fly-half began last Saturday against Australia for leadership considerations, and part of that decision aimed at ensuring continuity while acknowledging his performance from the tour of Argentina.

However, the national team's showing against Fiji was a significant improvement from the performance against Australia.

The Wallabies lost on Italian soil last weekend, therefore we must avoid becoming overly excited with that win, which should have been by a larger margin given how off the pace Australia performed.

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

Long-term Potential

Fin Smith is still only twenty-three - projecting forward two years, with Ford challenging him while providing support, I believe Smith will find himself in a very strong place as a player.

The Harlequins star must also be regarded as an option at the right time and versus suitable opponents.

He's progressing as a player and is starting to establish himself, but he also needs the freedom to show his unique attributes.

Substitute Influence

New Zealand brought on Damian McKenzie, who registered the match-winning try defeating Scotland, demonstrating the significance of possessing individuals capable of creating genuine influence as substitutes.

That kind of player can be the difference separating victory a World Cup or not.

The All Blacks substitute observes the game unfold while substituted while considering about how to create a difference when he comes on.

His decision-making and mistake frequency have improved substantially from his initial career.

Role Discussion

Should we develop Marcus as that kind influential player, then having him in the backfield could be beneficial.

Nonetheless, currently I believe he represents the solution in the number fifteen position, so that is a position remaining unclaimed.

New Zealand will kick to challenge the English backfield, therefore it must remain watertight.

This role that needs transforming into a real strength, in defense and in terms of the counter-attack threat.

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

I struggle to identify the advantage fielding him in that position.

I prefer possession under his control frequently, but I believe that should be in the front line, especially in the final 20 minutes.

Innate Qualities

There are obviously numerous similarities between Ford and Fin Smith.

Fin has the ability executing right decisions under pressure - his instincts represent traits that can be coach.

I recall as he received possession at one stage just inside his own half and it looked like it could be on if they spread play.

However during these milliseconds he calculated they needed to turn Fiji round as we are up on the scoreboard, therefore he punted it to pin them back and turn the screw.

That's the sort of fly-half play securing championships and wins global tournaments.

All-round Ability

He additionally possesses composure under pressure to organise teammates around him, and the understanding that he doesn't always need as primary receiver.

I want to see him given the opportunity to show that at the highest level next week, similar to the veteran accomplish, especially at domestic matches week in consistently.

In Argentina, the experienced fly-half similarly excelled in difficult circumstances, where historically you could argue there have been times where he didn't fully delivered in the very highest-pressure games.

I think England possesses playmaking options capable of performing the role, though Smith's defence combined with everything else, it makes him the better-rounded all-round performer.

Defensive System

It also means you don't have to adjust your defensive system while fielding someone aggressive occupying the playmaker position, instead of an individual being somewhat reserved.

You could also make a strong case favoring Ford beginning with Smith entering from the bench.

There are so many considerations occurring behind closed doors, but whichever way the management choose to proceed, it will give the opponents problems.

That has not always been the situation facing New Zealand, when attention was simply on picking the optimal individual.

This time, whichever fly-half they choose will pressure the All Blacks significantly.

Fin's ability selecting the right kick and execute enabling possible territorial gains might relieve all the stress away from the national team.