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According to rugby specialists, Fin Smith has shown why he deserves the first-choice spot for the national team's number ten versus the All Blacks on Saturday.

The Northampton Saints star delivered without doubt the most impressive defensive display observed from an England fly-half for quite some time.

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

His tactical control proved exceptional - he demonstrated a perfect blend of skill and control, and made several crucial choices during moments didn't proceed as expected in the first half.

Tackling Prowess Coupled with Tactical Command

His capacity to settle the team strategically and make big calls represents an aspect he has really nailed.

From my perspective, the young fly-half represents England's number one playmaker and he should start versus the All Blacks this weekend.

I think the manager Steve Borthwick views it that way as well, because Fin has proven his capability in big international games.

Team Selection Amid Rivalry

George Ford began last Saturday against Australia for leadership considerations, and part of that decision was to provide continuity and reward his form during the visit of Argentina.

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

The Wallabies lost on Italian soil on Saturday, therefore we must avoid becoming too carried away with that win, that could have been more comprehensive given how below par the Australians performed.

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

Future Prospects

Fin Smith remains just 23 - projecting forward 24 months, alongside Ford pushing him but also offering support, I think Smith will find himself in a very strong position as a player.

Marcus Smith must also be considered as a possibility when appropriate and versus suitable opponents.

He's progressing in his career and is starting to find his feet, but he also requires liberty to demonstrate his unique attributes.

Substitute Influence

New Zealand brought on their impact player, who registered the match-winning try defeating the Scottish team, demonstrating the importance of having players who can make a real impact from the bench.

Such type of presence might represent the deciding factor separating victory a World Cup from failure.

McKenzie watches the match unfold while substituted and thinks regarding ways he can make 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 to be such type influential player, then having him in the backfield might prove valuable.

However, currently I don't think he is the answer at full-back, making it a position remaining up for grabs.

New Zealand will kick to challenge England's backfield, therefore it must remain impenetrable.

It is a position that needs transforming into a genuine asset, both defensively while regarding offensive transitions threat.

Currently, I don't think Smith functions as full-back in top-tier rugby.

I struggle to see the advantage fielding him there.

I want the ball under his control frequently, but I believe this should occur in the front line, particularly during the last 20 minutes.

Natural Instincts

Clearly there exist a lot of similarities comparing Ford and Fin Smith.

Fin has the capacity to make right choices under pressure - his instincts represent traits you can really coach.

I recall when he got the ball during one phase within his territory appearing that opportunity existed on if they spread play.

However during these split-seconds he calculated the team required to turn Fiji round as we are up on the scoreboard, so he kicked it to pin them back and turn the screw.

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

Complete Package

He additionally possesses composure under pressure to organise teammates nearby, and the understanding that he mustn't constantly serve to be the first option.

I hope to witness him receiving the chance to show this at elite level next week, just as we have seen the veteran do, especially at club level repeatedly and week out.

During the South American tour, the experienced fly-half also stood up during challenging situations, where historically one might suggest there have been times he has not quite delivered during extremely tense matches.

I believe we have playmaking options who can do the job, though Smith's defensive work on top of additional qualities, establishes him as the better-rounded versatile performer.

Tactical Setup

This also indicates you don't have to modify your defensive system while fielding someone aggressive occupying the playmaker channel, rather than someone who is a little more reserved.

You could also make a strong case favoring Ford beginning with Smith coming off the bench.

There are so many factors that go on privately, but whichever way the coaches choose to proceed, this will present the opponents problems.

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

This time, either playmaker they choose will pressure New Zealand under real pressure.

Fin's ability selecting the right kick and execute for a potential 50-20 can take all the stress off England.