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According to rugby specialists, the young playmaker has shown why he deserves the starting position as England's fly-half versus New Zealand this weekend.

Fin Smith produced without doubt the best defensive display we have seen by an English playmaker for quite some time.

How he fronted up by consistently making his tackles against a physical Fijian team stood out remarkably.

His game management proved exceptional - he demonstrated a perfect blend of finesse and composure, and made several crucial choices when things were not going to plan in the first half.

Tackling Prowess Coupled with Tactical Leadership

His capacity to calm the squad tactically and make important decisions represents an aspect he has really mastered.

From my perspective, Fin Smith represents England's primary playmaker and he should begin against the All Blacks next week.

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

Squad Decisions Amid Rivalry

The experienced fly-half began the previous weekend versus the Wallabies due to captaincy considerations, with some aspect of that decision aimed at ensuring consistency while acknowledging his form 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 versus the Wallabies.

The Wallabies lost on Italian soil on Saturday, therefore we must avoid becoming overly excited about that victory, which should have been more comprehensive given how off the pace the Australians were.

Fiji, on the other hand, were much more dangerous and presented a far tougher test.

Long-term Potential

Fin Smith remains just 23 - looking ahead two years, with Ford challenging him but also offering backup, I think Smith will find himself in an excellent 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 show his unique attributes.

Bench Impact

The All Blacks introduced Damian McKenzie, who registered the decisive try defeating Scotland, and that shows the importance of having players capable of creating a real impact as substitutes.

Such type of presence can be the deciding factor separating victory a World Cup or not.

The All Blacks substitute observes the game develop while substituted while considering about how to create an impact upon entering.

His decision-making and mistake frequency have improved significantly since his early career.

Role Discussion

Should we develop Smith to be that kind of impactful player, including him among substitutes might prove valuable.

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

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

It is a position requiring transforming into a genuine asset, both defensively while regarding offensive transitions danger.

Right now, I believe Marcus functions as full-back in top-tier rugby.

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

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

Natural Instincts

There are obviously numerous parallels comparing Ford with Smith.

Smith possesses the ability to make the correct decisions during tense moments - his natural reactions are not something that can be coach.

I remember as he received the ball at one stage within his territory and it looked like it could be should they swung it wide.

However during these milliseconds he calculated the team required to turn the opposition since England were up on the scoreboard, so he kicked to pressure them back applying pressure.

That's the sort of playmaking that wins titles while claiming global tournaments.

All-round Ability

He additionally possesses that calmness under pressure directing the players nearby, and the understanding that he mustn't always need to be the first option.

I want to see him given the opportunity to show that at the highest standards soon, just as we have seen George Ford accomplish, especially at club level week in consistently.

During the South American tour, Ford similarly excelled during challenging circumstances, where historically you could argue there have been times where he didn't fully delivered during extremely tense matches.

I think we have two fly-halves capable of performing the job, but with Fin's defence combined with additional qualities, it makes him the more complete all-round performer.

Defensive System

This also indicates you don't have to modify your defensive system while fielding an assertive player occupying the playmaker position, 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 occurring behind closed doors, however the management decide to go, this will present New Zealand difficulties.

This hasn't consistently represented the narrative facing New Zealand, when attention was simply on selecting the right player.

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

Smith's capacity to pick the right kick while delivering for a potential 50-20 might relieve pressure away from the national team.