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In expert analysis, the young playmaker has demonstrated that he merits the starting position as England's number ten against New Zealand on Saturday.

The Northampton Saints star produced arguably the most impressive defensive display observed from an England fly-half in several years.

His courageous approach through regularly completing defensive hits against an aggressive Fiji side stood out remarkably.

His game management proved exceptional - he demonstrated an excellent balance of skill and composure, while executing several crucial decisions during moments didn't proceed as expected during the opening period.

Defensive Excellence Coupled with Tactical Command

His capacity to settle the team tactically and make big calls represents an aspect he has truly nailed.

In my opinion, Fin Smith represents England's primary playmaker and he should begin against New Zealand next week.

I think the manager the England coach views it similarly too, since Smith has demonstrated his capability in big Test matches.

Squad Decisions and Competition

George Ford began last Saturday versus the Wallabies due to captaincy considerations, with some aspect of that decision aimed at ensuring consistency while acknowledging his performance from the tour to South America.

But England's showing against Fiji represented a marked step up compared to the display versus the Wallabies.

The Wallabies lost in Italy last weekend, therefore we must not get overly excited with that win, which should have been by a larger margin given how off the pace the Australians performed.

The Fijian team, on the other hand, proved significantly threatening and presented a much more difficult challenge.

Future Prospects

The young playmaker remains just twenty-three - looking ahead two years, alongside Ford pushing him but also offering backup, I believe Smith will find himself in a very strong place as a player.

Marcus Smith also has to be regarded as a possibility at the right time and versus suitable opponents.

He's progressing as a player while beginning to find his feet, though he requires liberty to show his distinctive qualities.

Substitute Influence

The All Blacks introduced their impact player, who scored the decisive score defeating Scotland, and that shows the significance of possessing players capable of creating a real impact as substitutes.

Such type of presence can be the deciding factor separating victory the global tournament or not.

McKenzie watches the game unfold from the bench while considering about how he can make an impact when he comes on.

His choices and error rate have enhanced substantially from his initial professional days.

Role Discussion

Should we develop Marcus to be such type influential performer, then having him among substitutes could be beneficial.

However, at the moment I don't think Marcus represents the solution at full-back, so that is a position remaining unclaimed.

New Zealand will kick to challenge England's defensive line, therefore it must remain watertight.

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

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

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

I want possession under his control as much as possible, though I think this should occur among starters, especially in the final quarter.

Natural Instincts

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

Fin has the capacity executing right decisions under pressure - his instincts are not something that can be coach.

I remember when he got possession at one stage just inside his territory appearing like it could be on if they swung it wide.

However during these milliseconds he thought they needed to turn Fiji round as we are up on the scoreboard, so he kicked it to pin the opponents applying pressure.

This represents the type of fly-half play that wins championships while claiming World Cups.

All-round Ability

He additionally possesses composure during intensity directing the players around him, while recognizing that he doesn't constantly serve to be the first receiver.

I hope to witness him given the chance demonstrating that at the highest level next week, just as we have seen George Ford accomplish, especially at club level week in and week out.

During the South American tour, the experienced fly-half similarly excelled in difficult situations, where historically one might suggest occasions existed where he didn't fully delivered in the very highest-pressure matches.

I believe we have two fly-halves capable of performing the role, though Smith's defensive work combined with additional qualities, establishes him as the more complete versatile player.

Tactical Setup

It also means you don't have to modify your defensive system while fielding an assertive player occupying the playmaker position, instead of someone who is a little more reserved.

You could also make a strong case for Ford starting with Smith coming off substitution.

Numerous considerations that go on behind closed doors, but whichever way the management decide to go, it will give New Zealand difficulties.

That has not always been the situation against the All Blacks, where the focus concentrated solely on selecting the right player.

This time, either playmaker they choose will pressure the All Blacks significantly.

Smith's capacity to pick optimal kicks while delivering for a potential territorial gains can take all the stress off England.