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In expert analysis, Fin Smith has shown that he merits the first-choice spot as England's number ten versus New Zealand this weekend.

The Northampton Saints star delivered without doubt the most impressive defensive display observed from an England fly-half in several years.

His courageous approach by consistently making defensive hits versus an aggressive Fiji side was impressive.

His game management proved exceptional - he demonstrated an excellent balance of skill and composure, while executing some strong choices when things didn't proceed as expected in the first half.

Defensive Excellence and Strategic Leadership

His ability to settle the squad tactically and make big calls is something he has truly mastered.

In my opinion, Fin Smith is England's primary playmaker and he should start versus New Zealand next week.

I think head coach Steve Borthwick views it that way as well, since Smith has demonstrated his capability in big international games.

Team Selection Amid Rivalry

The experienced fly-half began the previous weekend against Australia for leadership reasons, with some aspect of that choice was to provide continuity and reward his performance from the tour to South America.

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

Australia were defeated on Italian soil on Saturday, so we should not get too carried away about that victory, which should have been more comprehensive considering how off the pace the Australians performed.

The Fijian team, by contrast, were much more dangerous while offering a far tougher challenge.

Future Prospects

Fin Smith remains just 23 - projecting forward 24 months, with Ford challenging him while providing backup, I believe Fin will be in a very strong position as a player.

The Harlequins star also has to be considered as a possibility at the right time and against suitable opponents.

He's progressing as a player and is starting to find his feet, but he also requires liberty to show his distinctive qualities.

Bench Impact

The All Blacks introduced their impact player, who scored the match-winning try defeating Scotland, demonstrating the importance of having players capable of creating a real impact as substitutes.

That kind of player can be the deciding factor separating victory a World Cup from failure.

The All Blacks substitute watches the game develop from the bench and thinks about how to create an impact upon entering.

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

Role Discussion

If we can get Smith as that kind influential performer, including him in the backfield could be valuable.

However, at the moment I don't think he represents the solution in the number fifteen position, making it a position that is still unclaimed.

The All Blacks are likely to punt testing the English defensive line, therefore it must remain impenetrable.

This role requiring to become a real strength, in defense while regarding of the counter-attack danger.

Right now, I believe Marcus functions as full-back at the highest level.

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

I want the ball in his hands frequently, but I believe this should occur in the front line, particularly in the final quarter.

Innate Qualities

Clearly there exist numerous parallels comparing Ford and Fin Smith.

Smith possesses the capacity to make the correct choices under pressure - his instincts are not something that can be coach.

I recall as he received the ball during one phase just inside his territory appearing that opportunity existed should they spread play.

However during these split-seconds he thought the team required to turn the opposition since England were up on the scoreboard, so he kicked to pressure them back and turn pressure.

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

Complete Package

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

I want to see him given the opportunity demonstrating this at elite standards soon, just as we have seen George Ford do, especially at domestic matches repeatedly and week out.

In Argentina, Ford also stood up during challenging circumstances, previously you could argue there have been times where he didn't fully delivered during extremely tense games.

I believe we have two fly-halves capable of performing the job, but with Fin's defence on top of additional qualities, establishes him as the more complete all-round player.

Defensive System

It also means you don't have to adjust the defensive structure when you have someone aggressive occupying the playmaker channel, rather than someone who is a little more reserved.

One might present compelling arguments for Ford starting with Smith coming off substitution.

There are so many considerations occurring behind closed doors, but whichever way the coaches choose to proceed, this will present New Zealand difficulties.

That has not always been the situation facing New Zealand, when attention was simply on picking the right player.

On this occasion, either playmaker they choose will pressure New Zealand significantly.

Fin's ability selecting optimal kicks while delivering enabling possible territorial gains might relieve all the stress away from the national team.