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In expert analysis, the young playmaker has demonstrated why he deserves the starting position for the national team's number ten against New Zealand this weekend.

The Northampton Saints star produced arguably the best defensive display we have seen from an England fly-half for quite some time.

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

His game management proved exceptional - he showed an excellent balance of skill and control, while executing several crucial choices during moments were not going to plan in the first half.

Defensive Excellence and Strategic Command

His ability to settle the squad tactically and make important decisions is something he has really mastered.

From my perspective, the young fly-half represents England's primary playmaker and he should start against New Zealand next week.

I think the manager Steve Borthwick views it that way too, because Fin has demonstrated his capability during important international games.

Team Selection Amid Rivalry

George Ford started last Saturday versus the Wallabies for leadership considerations, with some aspect of that decision aimed at ensuring continuity and reward his form during the visit to South America.

But England's showing versus the Pacific Islanders represented a marked step up from the performance versus the Wallabies.

The Wallabies were defeated in Italy on Saturday, so we should not get too carried away about that victory, that could have been more comprehensive given how off the pace the Australians performed.

Fiji, by contrast, were much more dangerous and presented a far tougher challenge.

Future Prospects

Fin Smith remains just 23 - looking ahead two years, alongside Ford challenging him while providing backup, I believe Fin will be in a very strong position in his career.

Marcus Smith must also be considered as an option when appropriate and versus suitable opponents.

He's progressing in his career and is starting to establish himself, though he needs the freedom to demonstrate his distinctive attributes.

Bench Impact

The All Blacks introduced their impact player, who registered the decisive try defeating Scotland, and that shows the significance of having players who can make a real impact from the bench.

That kind of presence can be the difference separating victory a World Cup or not.

The All Blacks substitute observes the match develop from the bench and thinks about how to create a difference upon entering.

His choices and error rate have improved substantially since his early career.

Role Discussion

Should we develop Marcus to be that kind influential performer, then having him among substitutes might prove beneficial.

However, currently I don't think Marcus represents the solution in the number fifteen position, so that is a position that is still unclaimed.

The All Blacks will kick testing the English defensive line, so it has remain watertight.

This role that needs transforming into a genuine asset, both defensively while regarding offensive transitions danger.

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

I struggle to see the benefit of playing him in that position.

I prefer the ball under his control 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 comparing Ford with Smith.

Fin has the ability executing the correct choices under pressure - his instincts represent traits that can be taught.

I remember when he got possession during one phase within his own half and it looked that opportunity existed should they swung it wide.

But in those milliseconds he calculated the team required reversing Fiji round as we are leading points-wise, therefore he punted it to pin the opponents applying pressure.

That's the sort of playmaking that wins championships while claiming World Cups.

Complete Package

He additionally possesses composure during intensity to organise teammates nearby, while recognizing that he doesn't constantly serve as primary option.

I want to see him receiving the chance to show that at the highest standards soon, similar to the veteran accomplish, especially at club level week in and week out.

In Argentina, the experienced fly-half similarly excelled in difficult situations, previously you could argue there have been times he has not quite done so during extremely tense games.

I think we have playmaking options who can do the role, but with Fin's defensive work combined with everything else, establishes him as the better-rounded versatile player.

Tactical Setup

It also means you don't have to adjust the defensive structure while fielding an assertive player in the fly-half position, instead of someone who is somewhat reserved.

One might present compelling arguments for Ford starting and Fin Smith entering from substitution.

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

This hasn't consistently represented the narrative facing New Zealand, where the focus concentrated solely on picking the optimal individual.

This time, either playmaker they choose can put New Zealand significantly.

Fin's ability selecting optimal kicks and execute for a potential 50-20 might relieve pressure off the national team.