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According to rugby specialists, Fin Smith has demonstrated that he merits the starting position as England's fly-half versus the All Blacks on Saturday.

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

His courageous approach through regularly completing his tackles versus a physical Fiji side stood out remarkably.

His tactical control was also immense - he demonstrated a perfect blend of finesse and composure, while executing some strong choices when things didn't proceed to plan during the opening period.

Tackling Prowess and Strategic Command

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

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

I think the manager the England coach sees it that way as well, because Fin has demonstrated he can perform in big Test matches.

Squad Decisions and Competition

The experienced fly-half began the previous weekend against Australia for leadership considerations, with some aspect of that decision was to provide consistency 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 compared to the display against Australia.

Australia lost in Italy last weekend, therefore we must avoid becoming overly excited about that victory, that could have been more comprehensive considering how below par the Australians performed.

Fiji, on the other hand, were much more threatening while offering a far tougher test.

Future Prospects

Fin Smith is still only 23 - looking ahead 24 months, with Ford challenging him while providing support, I think Smith will find himself in a very strong place as a player.

The Harlequins star also has to be regarded as an option when appropriate and against suitable opponents.

He's progressing as a player and is starting to establish himself, though he needs the freedom to demonstrate his distinctive qualities.

Substitute Influence

New Zealand introduced their impact player, who registered the match-winning try to beat the Scottish team, demonstrating the importance of possessing individuals who can make genuine influence from the bench.

Such type of player might represent the difference separating victory a World Cup or not.

McKenzie watches the match unfold from the bench and thinks about how he can make a difference when he comes on.

His choices and mistake frequency have improved substantially from his initial professional days.

Positional Debate

Should we develop Smith to be that kind influential player, including him among substitutes could be valuable.

Nonetheless, at the moment I believe Marcus is the answer at full-back, so that is a position remaining up for grabs.

The All Blacks will kick to challenge England's backfield, therefore it must to be impenetrable.

It is a position that needs to become a real strength, in defense and in terms offensive transitions threat.

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

I struggle to see the benefit fielding him there.

I want the ball under his control frequently, though I think that should be in the front line, particularly in the final 20 minutes.

Innate Qualities

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

Fin has the ability to make right decisions under pressure - his natural reactions represent traits that can be taught.

I remember when he got the ball during one phase just inside his own half and it looked that opportunity existed should they spread play.

But in those milliseconds he thought the team required reversing Fiji round as we are up on the scoreboard, therefore he punted it to pin them back applying the screw.

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

All-round Ability

He additionally possesses composure under pressure directing teammates nearby, while recognizing that he doesn't constantly serve to be the first receiver.

I hope to witness him receiving the opportunity demonstrating that at the highest level next week, just as we have seen the veteran do, especially at club level week in and week out.

During the South American tour, the experienced fly-half also stood up during challenging circumstances, previously you could argue there have been times he has not quite delivered during extremely tense matches.

I think England possesses playmaking options who can do the role, but with Fin's defensive work on top of additional qualities, establishes him as the more complete versatile performer.

Tactical Setup

This also indicates there's no need to adjust the defensive structure while fielding someone aggressive in the fly-half channel, rather than an individual being a little more reserved.

One might make a strong case favoring Ford beginning and Fin Smith coming off substitution.

Numerous factors that go on behind closed doors, however the management choose to proceed, this will present New Zealand problems.

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

On this occasion, either playmaker they choose will pressure the All Blacks under real pressure.

Fin's ability selecting optimal kicks and execute enabling possible territorial gains can take pressure away from England.