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

Fin Smith delivered arguably the best defensive performance observed by an English fly-half for quite some time.

How he fronted up through regularly completing defensive hits versus a physical Fijian team stood out remarkably.

His tactical control proved exceptional - he demonstrated a perfect blend of finesse and composure, and made several crucial decisions during moments were not going to plan during the opening period.

Tackling Prowess and Strategic Leadership

His ability to calm the team tactically while making important decisions represents an aspect he has truly nailed.

In my opinion, Fin Smith is England's number one playmaker and deserves to begin versus New Zealand next week.

I think head coach Steve Borthwick views it similarly as well, because Fin has demonstrated his capability during important Test matches.

Team Selection Amid Rivalry

The experienced fly-half started last Saturday against Australia due to captaincy reasons, with some aspect of that decision aimed at ensuring continuity while acknowledging his performance from the tour to South America.

But England's performance versus the Pacific Islanders represented a marked step up compared to the display against Australia.

Australia lost in Italy on Saturday, therefore we must avoid becoming too carried away with that win, which should have been by a larger margin given how off the pace the Australians were.

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

Long-term Potential

The young playmaker remains just 23 - projecting forward 24 months, alongside Ford pushing him while providing backup, I think Smith will find himself in a very strong position in his career.

Marcus Smith must also be considered as a possibility when appropriate and against the right opposition.

He's progressing as a player and is starting to find his feet, but he also needs the freedom to demonstrate his unique attributes.

Bench Impact

The All Blacks brought on their impact player, who registered the match-winning try defeating the Scottish team, and that shows the significance of having players capable of creating a real impact as substitutes.

Such type of player might represent the deciding factor between winning the global tournament or not.

The All Blacks substitute watches the match unfold from the bench and thinks regarding ways to create an impact when he comes on.

His choices and error rate have improved substantially from his initial professional days.

Role Discussion

If we can get Smith to be that kind of impactful player, including him among substitutes might prove valuable.

However, currently I believe Marcus represents the solution at full-back, so that is a position remaining unclaimed.

The All Blacks are likely to punt testing the English backfield, therefore it must to be impenetrable.

This role that needs to become a real strength, both defensively while regarding of the counter-attack danger.

Currently, I believe Marcus functions as full-back in top-tier rugby.

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

I want the ball in his hands as much as possible, but I believe that should be in the front line, especially in the final 20 minutes.

Natural Instincts

There are obviously numerous parallels between Ford with Smith.

Fin has the capacity to make the correct decisions under pressure - his natural reactions represent traits you can really taught.

I remember as he received possession during one phase within his territory appearing like it could be on if they swung it wide.

However during these milliseconds he calculated the team required to turn Fiji round since England were up on the scoreboard, so he kicked it to pin the opponents and turn the screw.

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

Complete Package

He also has that calmness under pressure directing teammates nearby, while recognizing that he mustn't constantly serve to be the first option.

I want to see him receiving the opportunity demonstrating that at the highest standards soon, similar to George Ford do, particularly during club level week in consistently.

During the South American tour, Ford similarly excelled in difficult situations, previously one might suggest there have been times where he didn't fully delivered during extremely tense games.

I think England possesses two fly-halves who can do the job, though Smith's defensive work combined with additional qualities, establishes him as the better-rounded versatile performer.

Tactical Setup

It also means you don't have to adjust your defensive system when you have someone aggressive in the fly-half channel, instead of someone who is a little more reserved.

You could also make a strong case for Ford starting and Fin Smith coming off substitution.

There are so many factors occurring privately, however the coaches decide to go, it will give New Zealand difficulties.

This hasn't consistently represented the situation facing New Zealand, where the focus was simply on selecting the right player.

On this occasion, whichever fly-half selected can put New Zealand significantly.

Smith's capacity to pick optimal kicks while delivering enabling possible territorial gains can take all the stress away from the national team.