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In expert analysis, Fin Smith has shown why he deserves the first-choice spot as England's number ten against the All Blacks this weekend.

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 defensive hits versus a physical Fijian team was impressive.

His tactical control was also immense - he demonstrated a perfect blend of finesse and composure, and made some strong decisions during moments didn't proceed to plan during the opening period.

Tackling Prowess Coupled with Tactical Leadership

His ability to settle the team strategically while making big calls is something he has really mastered.

From my perspective, Fin Smith is England's primary fly-half and deserves to start versus New Zealand next week.

I think the manager Steve Borthwick views it that way as well, because Fin has proven his capability during important international games.

Team Selection and Competition

The experienced fly-half began last Saturday versus the Wallabies for leadership reasons, with some aspect of that decision aimed at ensuring continuity while acknowledging his performance during the visit of Argentina.

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

Australia lost in Italy on Saturday, therefore we must not get overly excited about that victory, that could have been by a larger margin given how off the pace Australia were.

The Fijian team, on the other hand, were much more threatening and presented a far tougher test.

Future Prospects

Fin Smith remains just 23 - projecting forward 24 months, alongside Ford pushing him while providing support, I think Fin will be in a very strong place as a player.

Marcus Smith also has to be regarded as an option at the right time and against the right opposition.

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

Bench Impact

The All Blacks introduced Damian McKenzie, who scored the match-winning try defeating Scotland, and that shows the importance of possessing individuals who can make a real impact as substitutes.

That kind of presence can be the deciding factor between winning a World Cup from failure.

McKenzie observes the match unfold while substituted while considering about how he can make a difference upon entering.

His choices and mistake frequency have enhanced substantially since his early career.

Positional Debate

If we can get Marcus to be such type influential performer, including him in the backfield could be valuable.

Nonetheless, currently I don't think Marcus represents the solution in the number fifteen position, making it a role remaining up for grabs.

The All Blacks will kick testing the English defensive line, so it has remain impenetrable.

This role that needs transforming into a genuine asset, both defensively and in terms offensive transitions danger.

Currently, I don't think Marcus is a full-back at the highest level.

I struggle to identify the benefit fielding him there.

I prefer possession under his control frequently, but I believe this should occur in the front line, particularly during the last 20 minutes.

Innate Qualities

Clearly there exist numerous parallels comparing Ford with Smith.

Smith possesses the capacity to make right decisions under pressure - his instincts are not something you can really taught.

I remember when he got the ball during one phase just inside his own half and it looked that opportunity existed on if they swung it wide.

But in those milliseconds he thought they needed reversing the opposition as we are up on the scoreboard, therefore he punted to pressure the opponents and turn the screw.

This represents the type of playmaking that wins championships while claiming World Cups.

All-round Ability

He also has that calmness under pressure directing teammates around him, while recognizing that he doesn't always need as primary option.

I want to see him given the opportunity demonstrating that at the highest standards soon, similar to George Ford accomplish, especially at club level repeatedly and week out.

During the South American tour, Ford also stood up in difficult situations, where historically you could argue occasions existed where he didn't fully done so during extremely tense games.

I think England possesses two fly-halves who can do the role, though Smith's defensive work on top of additional qualities, establishes him as the more complete versatile player.

Defensive System

It also means you don't have to modify your defensive system while fielding someone aggressive occupying the playmaker position, rather than an individual being a little more passive.

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

Numerous factors occurring behind closed doors, but whichever way the coaches choose to proceed, it will give the opponents problems.

That has not always been the narrative facing New Zealand, where the focus was simply on selecting the optimal individual.

On this occasion, either playmaker selected can put New Zealand significantly.

Fin's ability to pick the right kick and execute for a potential territorial gains can take all the stress off England.