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In expert analysis, Fin Smith has demonstrated why he deserves the starting position as England's number ten against New Zealand this weekend.

The Northampton Saints star delivered arguably the best defensive performance observed from an England playmaker for quite some time.

His courageous approach by consistently making defensive hits versus a physical Fiji side was impressive.

His game management proved exceptional - he showed an excellent balance of finesse and control, and made several crucial choices when things didn't proceed as expected during the opening period.

Tackling Prowess Coupled with Tactical Leadership

His ability to settle the squad tactically and make important decisions is something he has really nailed.

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

I think head coach Steve Borthwick views it that way as well, since Smith has proven he can perform in big international games.

Team Selection Amid Rivalry

The experienced fly-half began the previous weekend against Australia for leadership reasons, with some aspect of that decision was to provide continuity while acknowledging his performance from the tour of Argentina.

But England's showing versus the Pacific Islanders was a significant improvement from the performance against Australia.

Australia lost in Italy last weekend, therefore we must not get too carried away with that win, which should have been by a larger margin considering how below par Australia were.

Fiji, by contrast, were much more threatening while offering a far tougher test.

Long-term Potential

Fin Smith remains just twenty-three - projecting forward 24 months, alongside Ford challenging him but also offering support, I think Fin will be in an excellent position as a player.

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

He's progressing as a player and is starting to establish himself, but he also needs the freedom to demonstrate his distinctive qualities.

Substitute Influence

The All Blacks introduced Damian McKenzie, who registered the decisive score to beat Scotland, and that shows the importance of possessing individuals capable of creating genuine influence as substitutes.

That kind of presence might represent the difference separating victory the global tournament from failure.

McKenzie observes the game develop from the bench while considering regarding ways he can make a difference when he comes on.

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

Role Discussion

If we can get Marcus to be that kind of impactful player, then having him in the backfield could be beneficial.

Nonetheless, currently I believe he represents the solution at full-back, making it a position remaining up for grabs.

The All Blacks are likely to punt to challenge the English defensive line, so it has to be watertight.

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

Right now, I believe Marcus is a full-back in top-tier rugby.

I find it difficult to see the benefit fielding him in that position.

I want the ball under his control as much as possible, though I think this should occur in the front line, particularly in the final 20 minutes.

Innate Qualities

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

Fin has the capacity executing the correct choices during tense moments - his instincts represent traits that can be taught.

I remember when he got the ball at one stage just inside his own half and it looked that opportunity existed should they swung it wide.

However during these split-seconds he calculated 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 securing championships and wins global tournaments.

Complete Package

He additionally possesses composure under pressure directing the players around him, while recognizing that he doesn't constantly serve as primary option.

I want to see him receiving the chance demonstrating that at the highest level next week, similar to the veteran accomplish, particularly during club level week in consistently.

During the South American tour, Ford similarly excelled during challenging circumstances, where historically one might suggest occasions existed he has not quite delivered during extremely tense matches.

I think England possesses playmaking options who can do the role, but with Fin's defence on top of additional qualities, establishes him as the better-rounded all-round performer.

Defensive System

This also indicates you don't have to modify your defensive system while fielding someone aggressive occupying the playmaker position, instead of someone who is a little more passive.

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

There are so many factors that go on behind closed doors, but whichever way the coaches decide to go, it will give the opponents difficulties.

This hasn't consistently represented the narrative against the All Blacks, when attention concentrated solely on picking the optimal individual.

This time, either playmaker they choose can put the All Blacks under real pressure.

Smith's capacity to pick optimal kicks while delivering for a potential territorial gains can take all the stress away from the national team.