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According to rugby specialists, Fin Smith has shown that he merits the first-choice spot for the national team's number ten against the All Blacks this weekend.

The Northampton Saints star delivered arguably the most impressive defensive display we have seen from an England fly-half in several years.

His courageous approach through regularly completing defensive hits versus an aggressive Fiji side was impressive.

His tactical control was also immense - he demonstrated a perfect blend of finesse and composure, and made some strong decisions when things were not going as expected during the opening period.

Defensive Excellence Coupled with Tactical Command

His capacity to settle the team strategically and make big calls is something he has truly nailed.

From my perspective, the young fly-half is England's primary fly-half and he should start against the All Blacks next week.

I believe the manager the England coach views it that way as well, since Smith has proven he can perform in big Test matches.

Team Selection and Competition

George Ford started the previous weekend against Australia for leadership reasons, and part of that decision aimed at ensuring continuity and reward his performance from the tour of Argentina.

But England's performance against Fiji was a significant step up compared to the display versus the Wallabies.

Australia were defeated on Italian soil on Saturday, so we should avoid becoming overly excited with that win, that could have been by a larger margin considering how below par the Australians performed.

The Fijian team, by contrast, were much more threatening while offering a far tougher test.

Long-term Potential

The young playmaker is still only 23 - looking ahead two years, alongside Ford challenging him but also offering backup, I believe Fin will be in a very strong position as a player.

The Harlequins star must also be considered as an option when appropriate and versus suitable opponents.

He's progressing in his career while beginning to establish himself, but he also requires liberty to demonstrate his unique qualities.

Substitute Influence

The All Blacks introduced their impact player, who scored the match-winning try defeating Scotland, demonstrating the significance of possessing players capable of creating a real impact from the bench.

Such type of presence might represent the deciding factor separating victory the global tournament or not.

McKenzie observes the match develop while substituted while considering regarding ways he can make a difference upon entering.

His choices and mistake frequency have enhanced significantly since his early professional days.

Role Discussion

Should we develop Marcus to be such type of impactful performer, including him in the backfield could be valuable.

However, currently I believe he represents the solution in the number fifteen position, making it a role that is still up for grabs.

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

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

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

I struggle to identify the benefit fielding him there.

I want possession in his hands frequently, but I believe that should be in the front line, especially during the last quarter.

Natural Instincts

There are obviously a lot of parallels between Ford with Smith.

Smith possesses the ability to make the correct decisions under pressure - his instincts represent traits that can be taught.

I recall when he got possession at one stage within his own half appearing like it could be should they spread play.

But in those milliseconds he thought the team required to turn Fiji round since England were leading points-wise, therefore he punted it to pin them back applying the screw.

This represents the type of fly-half play securing titles and wins World Cups.

Complete Package

He additionally possesses that calmness under pressure to organise teammates nearby, while recognizing that he mustn't constantly serve as primary receiver.

I hope to witness him given the chance demonstrating that at the highest level next week, just as we have seen the veteran do, especially at domestic matches repeatedly consistently.

During the South American tour, the experienced fly-half also stood up in difficult situations, previously one might suggest there have been times he has not quite done so during extremely tense matches.

I think we have 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 while fielding an assertive player occupying the playmaker position, rather than an individual being a little more reserved.

You could also present compelling arguments for Ford starting with Smith entering from substitution.

Numerous factors occurring privately, but whichever way the management decide to go, this will present New Zealand difficulties.

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

On this occasion, whichever fly-half they choose can put the All Blacks under real pressure.

Fin's ability to pick the right kick while delivering for a potential territorial gains might relieve all the stress off the national team.