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According to rugby specialists, the young playmaker has shown that he merits the first-choice spot for the national team's fly-half versus the All Blacks on Saturday.

The Northampton Saints star delivered arguably the most impressive defensive display observed from an England playmaker in several years.

How he fronted up by consistently making defensive hits versus a physical Fiji side was impressive.

His game management proved exceptional - he demonstrated a perfect blend of skill and composure, and made some strong decisions during moments didn't proceed to plan during the opening period.

Defensive Excellence and Strategic Command

His capacity to settle the squad tactically while making big calls is something he has really mastered.

From my perspective, the young fly-half represents England's number one fly-half and deserves to begin versus New Zealand this weekend.

I believe head coach Steve Borthwick views it that way as well, because Fin has proven he can perform in big international games.

Team Selection Amid Rivalry

George Ford started last Saturday against Australia due to captaincy considerations, and part of that decision was to provide consistency while acknowledging his form during the visit of Argentina.

But England's showing against Fiji was a significant step up compared to the display versus the Wallabies.

The Wallabies were defeated in Italy last weekend, so we should avoid becoming overly excited with that win, which should have been more comprehensive considering how below par the Australians performed.

Fiji, by contrast, were much more threatening and presented a much more difficult challenge.

Long-term Potential

Fin Smith is still only 23 - looking ahead 24 months, alongside Ford challenging him but also offering support, I believe Smith will find himself in a very strong position as a player.

Marcus Smith must also be regarded as an option at the right time and versus the right opposition.

He is developing as a player while beginning to establish himself, but he also needs the freedom to show his distinctive attributes.

Substitute Influence

New Zealand introduced Damian McKenzie, who scored the match-winning try defeating Scotland, and that shows the importance of possessing players capable of creating a real impact from the bench.

That kind of player can be the deciding factor separating victory the global tournament from failure.

The All Blacks substitute watches the game unfold while substituted and thinks about how he can make a difference upon entering.

His decision-making and mistake frequency have enhanced significantly from his initial career.

Positional Debate

Should we develop Smith as that kind influential player, including him in the backfield might prove beneficial.

However, at the moment I believe Marcus is the answer in the number fifteen position, making it a role that is still up for grabs.

The All Blacks are likely to punt testing England's backfield, therefore it must remain watertight.

This role requiring to become a genuine asset, in defense and in terms offensive transitions threat.

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

I find it difficult to see the advantage of playing him there.

I want possession in his hands frequently, though I think this should occur among starters, particularly during the last 20 minutes.

Natural Instincts

Clearly there exist a lot of similarities between Ford with Smith.

Smith possesses the capacity executing the correct decisions under pressure - his instincts are not something that can be taught.

I recall as he received possession at one stage within his territory and it looked like it could be on if they spread play.

But in those split-seconds he calculated they needed reversing Fiji round since England were up on the scoreboard, therefore he punted it to pin them back applying pressure.

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

All-round Ability

He also has that calmness during intensity to organise the players around him, while recognizing that he mustn't always need to be the first option.

I hope to witness him given the chance demonstrating that at the highest level next week, just as we have seen the veteran accomplish, particularly during domestic matches week in consistently.

During the South American tour, the experienced fly-half also stood up during challenging circumstances, previously you could argue occasions existed where he didn't fully delivered during extremely tense games.

I think we have two fly-halves who can do the job, though Smith's defensive work on top of additional qualities, it makes him the more complete versatile performer.

Tactical Setup

It also means you don't have to modify your defensive system while fielding someone aggressive occupying the playmaker channel, instead of someone who is somewhat reserved.

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

There are so many factors that go on privately, however the management choose to proceed, it will give New Zealand difficulties.

This hasn't consistently represented the situation against the All Blacks, where the focus concentrated solely on picking the right player.

This time, whichever fly-half selected can put New Zealand significantly.

Fin's ability to pick optimal kicks and execute enabling possible territorial gains might relieve pressure off England.