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In expert analysis, Fin Smith has shown why he deserves the starting position for the national team's fly-half against the All Blacks on Saturday.

The Northampton Saints star delivered arguably the most impressive defensive performance we have seen by an English fly-half for quite some time.

How he fronted up by consistently making his tackles against an aggressive Fijian team was impressive.

His tactical control proved exceptional - he showed an excellent balance of finesse and control, and made several crucial choices when things didn't proceed to plan in the first half.

Tackling Prowess Coupled with Tactical Command

His capacity to calm the team tactically and make big calls is something he has really mastered.

From my perspective, the young fly-half represents England's number one playmaker and he should start against the All Blacks this weekend.

I believe head coach Steve Borthwick views it similarly too, since Smith has demonstrated his capability during important international games.

Team Selection and Competition

The experienced fly-half began last Saturday against Australia for leadership considerations, and part of that decision aimed at ensuring consistency and reward his performance from the tour to South America.

However, the national team's performance versus the Pacific Islanders represented a marked step up compared to the display versus the Wallabies.

Australia were defeated in Italy on Saturday, therefore we must avoid becoming too carried away with that win, which should have been by a larger margin given how below par the Australians performed.

Fiji, by contrast, proved significantly threatening while offering a far tougher challenge.

Long-term Potential

Fin Smith is still only twenty-three - projecting forward 24 months, alongside Ford pushing him while providing backup, I believe Smith will find himself in a very strong position in his career.

Marcus Smith must also be considered as a possibility when appropriate and against the right opposition.

He is developing in his career and is starting to establish himself, though he requires liberty to show his unique qualities.

Substitute Influence

New Zealand brought on Damian McKenzie, who scored the match-winning score to beat Scotland, demonstrating the significance of possessing individuals who can make a real impact as substitutes.

Such type of player might represent the difference separating victory a World Cup from failure.

McKenzie watches the game develop from the bench while considering about how he can make a difference when he comes on.

His decision-making and error rate have enhanced significantly from his initial professional days.

Positional Debate

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

However, at the moment I don't think he is the answer in the number fifteen position, making it a position remaining up for grabs.

New Zealand will kick to challenge the English defensive line, therefore it must remain watertight.

This role that needs to become a real strength, in defense while regarding offensive transitions threat.

Currently, I believe Marcus is a full-back at the highest level.

I find it difficult to identify the benefit fielding him there.

I prefer possession under his control as much as possible, though I think that should be among starters, particularly in the final 20 minutes.

Natural Instincts

Clearly there exist numerous similarities comparing Ford and Fin Smith.

Fin has the ability executing the correct decisions during tense moments - his natural reactions represent traits that can be taught.

I recall as he received possession at one stage just inside his territory appearing like it could be on if they swung it wide.

But in those milliseconds he calculated the team required reversing the opposition as we are up on the scoreboard, therefore he punted it to pin the opponents and turn the screw.

This represents the type of playmaking that wins championships while claiming global tournaments.

Complete Package

He also has composure during intensity directing teammates around him, and the understanding that he mustn't constantly serve as primary receiver.

I hope to witness him receiving the opportunity to show this at elite level next week, just as we have seen George Ford do, particularly during domestic matches week in consistently.

During the South American tour, the experienced fly-half similarly excelled in difficult situations, previously you could argue occasions existed where he didn't fully delivered in the very highest-pressure matches.

I believe we have two fly-halves who can do the job, but with Fin's defensive work combined with everything else, it makes him the better-rounded versatile performer.

Tactical Setup

This also indicates there's no need to adjust the defensive structure while fielding someone aggressive occupying the playmaker channel, rather than an individual being somewhat reserved.

You could also present compelling arguments favoring Ford beginning with Smith coming off substitution.

Numerous considerations occurring privately, however the coaches choose to proceed, it will give the opponents difficulties.

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

This time, either playmaker selected will pressure the All Blacks under real pressure.

Smith's capacity to pick the right kick and execute enabling possible 50-20 can take pressure away from England.