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In expert analysis, Fin Smith has demonstrated that he merits the starting position as England's fly-half against New Zealand this weekend.

The Northampton Saints star delivered without doubt the best defensive display observed from an England fly-half for quite some time.

How he fronted up by consistently making his tackles versus a physical Fijian team stood out remarkably.

His game management was also immense - he showed a perfect blend of finesse and composure, while executing several crucial choices during moments were not going to plan during the opening period.

Defensive Excellence Coupled with Tactical Leadership

His capacity to calm the squad tactically while making important decisions is something he has really nailed.

From my perspective, the young fly-half is England's number one fly-half and deserves to begin against New Zealand next week.

I think head coach the England coach views it that way as well, because Fin has proven his capability during important international games.

Team Selection and Competition

George Ford started the previous weekend against Australia due to captaincy considerations, and part of that decision aimed at ensuring continuity and reward his performance during the visit of Argentina.

But England's showing versus the Pacific Islanders represented a marked step up compared to the display against Australia.

The Wallabies were defeated on Italian soil last weekend, therefore we must avoid becoming overly excited with that win, that could have been by a larger margin given how off the pace Australia performed.

Fiji, on the other hand, were much more dangerous while offering a far tougher challenge.

Future Prospects

Fin Smith is still only 23 - projecting forward two years, alongside Ford challenging him but also offering support, I believe Smith will find himself in an excellent position as a player.

Marcus Smith also has to be considered as an option at the right time and against suitable opponents.

He is developing as a player and is starting to establish himself, but he also requires liberty to demonstrate his unique attributes.

Bench Impact

The All Blacks introduced Damian McKenzie, who registered the decisive try to beat Scotland, demonstrating the importance of possessing players capable of creating a real impact from the bench.

That kind of player might represent the difference between winning a World Cup from failure.

McKenzie observes the match unfold from the bench while considering about how to create a difference when he comes on.

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

Role Discussion

Should we develop Marcus to be that kind of impactful performer, including him among substitutes might prove beneficial.

However, currently I believe he represents the solution in the number fifteen position, so that is a position remaining up for grabs.

The All Blacks are likely to punt to challenge England's defensive line, therefore it must to be impenetrable.

It is a position that needs transforming into a genuine asset, both defensively and in terms offensive transitions danger.

Right now, I don't think Smith functions as full-back at the highest level.

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

I prefer the ball in his hands as much as possible, but I believe that should be among starters, particularly during the last quarter.

Natural Instincts

There are obviously a lot of parallels comparing Ford and Fin Smith.

Fin has the ability executing right decisions during tense moments - his natural reactions are not something you can really coach.

I remember when he got possession during one phase within his own half and it looked that opportunity existed should they swung it wide.

But in those split-seconds he thought they needed reversing Fiji round as we are leading points-wise, so he kicked to pressure the opponents applying the screw.

This represents the type of fly-half play securing titles and wins global tournaments.

Complete Package

He also has composure under pressure to organise teammates nearby, and the understanding that he doesn't always need to be the first option.

I want to see him receiving the chance demonstrating that at the highest standards soon, similar to George Ford do, especially at domestic matches week in consistently.

During the South American tour, the experienced fly-half also stood up during challenging situations, where historically you could argue there have been times he has not quite done so during extremely tense games.

I believe England possesses two fly-halves who can do the job, though Smith's defensive work on top of additional qualities, it makes him the more complete versatile performer.

Defensive System

It also means you don't have to modify your defensive system when you have someone aggressive in the fly-half position, instead of someone who is a little more reserved.

One might present compelling arguments for Ford starting and Fin Smith coming off substitution.

There are so many factors that go on privately, but whichever way the coaches decide to go, this will present the opponents problems.

That has not always been the situation facing New Zealand, when attention concentrated solely on selecting the optimal individual.

On this occasion, either playmaker they choose will pressure New Zealand significantly.

Smith's capacity selecting the right kick and execute enabling possible 50-20 might relieve pressure off England.