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In expert analysis, Fin Smith has shown why he deserves the starting position as England's number ten versus New Zealand this weekend.

The Northampton Saints star delivered without doubt the most impressive defensive performance we have seen by an English playmaker for quite some time.

His courageous approach by consistently making defensive hits against a physical Fiji side was impressive.

His game management proved exceptional - he demonstrated an excellent balance of finesse and composure, and made several crucial choices during moments were not going to plan during the opening period.

Defensive Excellence Coupled with Tactical Command

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

In my opinion, the young fly-half represents England's primary fly-half and he should begin versus New Zealand next week.

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

Squad Decisions Amid Rivalry

The experienced fly-half began the previous weekend against Australia for leadership considerations, and part of that choice was to provide consistency and reward his performance during the visit to South America.

However, the national team's showing versus the Pacific Islanders was a significant step up from the performance against Australia.

Australia lost in Italy on Saturday, so we should avoid becoming overly excited with that win, that could have been by a larger margin considering how off the pace Australia were.

The Fijian team, by contrast, were much more dangerous and presented a much more difficult test.

Future Prospects

Fin Smith is still only 23 - projecting forward 24 months, with Ford challenging him but also offering support, I think Fin will be in a very strong place in his career.

Marcus Smith must also be considered as an option at the right time and versus suitable opponents.

He's progressing in his career and is starting to establish himself, though he requires liberty to show his unique qualities.

Substitute Influence

New Zealand introduced their impact player, who scored the match-winning score to beat Scotland, and that shows the importance of possessing individuals who can make a real impact as substitutes.

That kind of presence might represent the deciding factor between winning the global tournament or not.

The All Blacks substitute watches the game develop from the bench while considering about how he can make an impact upon entering.

His decision-making and error rate have improved significantly from his initial career.

Positional Debate

If we can get Smith as such type influential performer, then having him among substitutes might prove beneficial.

Nonetheless, currently I don't think Marcus is the answer in the number fifteen position, so that is a role remaining up for grabs.

The All Blacks are likely to punt to challenge the English backfield, so it has to be impenetrable.

It is a position requiring transforming into a genuine asset, in defense and in terms of the counter-attack threat.

Currently, I don't think Marcus is a full-back at the highest level.

I find it difficult to see the advantage fielding him in that position.

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

Natural Instincts

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

Fin has the ability executing the correct choices during tense moments - his natural reactions represent traits you can really coach.

I recall as he received possession during one phase just inside his own half appearing that opportunity existed should they swung it wide.

However during these milliseconds he calculated the team required to turn Fiji round as we are leading points-wise, therefore he punted to pressure them back and turn pressure.

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

All-round Ability

He additionally possesses that calmness under pressure directing the players around him, while recognizing that he mustn't constantly serve to be the first option.

I hope to witness him receiving the chance to show that at the highest level next week, just as we have seen the veteran do, particularly during club level repeatedly and week out.

In Argentina, Ford also stood up in difficult situations, previously one might suggest occasions existed where he didn't fully done so in the very highest-pressure matches.

I believe England possesses playmaking options who can do the job, though Smith's defence combined with additional qualities, establishes him as the better-rounded versatile player.

Tactical Setup

This also indicates there's no need to modify the defensive structure when you have an assertive player occupying the playmaker position, rather than an individual being somewhat reserved.

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

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

That has not always been the situation against the All Blacks, when attention was simply on selecting the right player.

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

Fin's ability selecting optimal kicks while delivering enabling possible 50-20 can take all the stress away from England.