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According to rugby specialists, the young playmaker has demonstrated that he merits the starting position as England's number ten versus New Zealand this weekend.

The Northampton Saints star delivered arguably the most impressive defensive performance we have seen from an England playmaker for quite some time.

How he fronted up by consistently making defensive hits versus an aggressive Fijian team stood out remarkably.

His tactical control was also immense - he demonstrated an excellent balance of skill and control, and made several crucial decisions during moments didn't proceed as expected in the first half.

Defensive Excellence Coupled with Tactical Command

His ability to calm the team strategically and make important decisions is something he has really nailed.

From my perspective, Fin Smith is England's number one playmaker and he should begin versus the All Blacks this weekend.

I think head coach the England coach sees it similarly as well, since Smith has proven he can perform during important Test matches.

Squad Decisions and Competition

The experienced fly-half began last Saturday versus the Wallabies for leadership considerations, and part of that choice aimed at ensuring continuity while acknowledging his form during the visit of Argentina.

However, the national team's showing against Fiji was a significant step up from the performance against Australia.

Australia were defeated in Italy last weekend, therefore we must not get too carried away about that victory, that could have been by a larger margin considering how off the pace the Australians performed.

The Fijian team, by contrast, proved significantly dangerous and presented a far tougher challenge.

Future Prospects

Fin Smith remains just twenty-three - projecting forward 24 months, alongside Ford challenging him but also offering support, I believe Smith will find himself in an excellent place in his career.

The Harlequins star must also be considered as an option when appropriate and versus the right opposition.

He's progressing as a player and is starting to establish himself, though he needs the freedom to show his unique qualities.

Bench Impact

The All Blacks introduced Damian McKenzie, who scored the decisive score to beat the Scottish team, and that shows the significance of having individuals who can make genuine influence from the bench.

That kind of player might represent the difference between winning a World Cup or not.

McKenzie watches the game unfold while substituted while considering about how to create a difference when he comes on.

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

Role Discussion

Should we develop Smith to be that kind influential player, including him in the backfield might prove beneficial.

However, currently I believe Marcus represents the solution at full-back, making it a position that is still unclaimed.

The All Blacks will kick to challenge the English defensive line, therefore it must remain impenetrable.

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

Right now, I don't think Smith is a full-back in top-tier rugby.

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

I want the ball under his control frequently, though I think that should be among starters, especially in the final quarter.

Innate Qualities

There are obviously numerous parallels between Ford and Fin Smith.

Smith possesses the capacity to make right choices during tense moments - his natural reactions represent traits that can be coach.

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

But in those split-seconds he calculated the team required reversing Fiji round as we are up on the scoreboard, so he kicked to pressure the opponents and turn pressure.

That's the sort of fly-half play securing titles while claiming World Cups.

All-round Ability

He additionally possesses that calmness during intensity to organise the players nearby, and the understanding that he doesn't always need as primary receiver.

I want to see him given the chance to show that at the highest level next week, just as we have seen the veteran accomplish, particularly during domestic matches repeatedly and week out.

In Argentina, the experienced fly-half similarly excelled during challenging circumstances, where historically you could argue there have been times where he didn't fully done so in the very highest-pressure matches.

I think England possesses playmaking options who can do the role, though Smith's defence combined with everything else, establishes him as the better-rounded versatile performer.

Defensive System

This also indicates you don't have to modify the defensive structure while fielding someone aggressive in the fly-half position, rather than someone who is somewhat passive.

You could also present compelling arguments favoring Ford beginning with Smith entering from substitution.

There are so many factors occurring privately, but whichever way the coaches decide to go, this will present New Zealand difficulties.

That has not always been the narrative facing New Zealand, where the focus concentrated solely on selecting the right player.

On this occasion, whichever fly-half selected will pressure the All Blacks significantly.

Fin's ability selecting the right kick and execute enabling possible territorial gains might relieve pressure off the national team.