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According to rugby specialists, Fin Smith has shown that he merits the first-choice spot as England's fly-half versus 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.

His courageous approach through regularly completing defensive hits against a physical Fijian team stood out remarkably.

His game management was also immense - he showed a perfect blend of finesse and composure, and made some strong choices during moments were not going to plan in the first half.

Tackling Prowess Coupled with Tactical Leadership

His capacity to settle the team strategically while making big calls represents an aspect he has really nailed.

In my opinion, the young fly-half represents England's primary playmaker and deserves to begin versus New Zealand this weekend.

I believe head coach Steve Borthwick sees it similarly too, because Fin has demonstrated his capability during important Test matches.

Squad Decisions and Competition

George Ford started last Saturday against Australia due to captaincy considerations, and part of that choice aimed at ensuring consistency and reward his form from the tour of Argentina.

But England's performance versus the Pacific Islanders was a significant improvement compared to the display versus the Wallabies.

Australia lost in Italy on Saturday, so we should avoid becoming overly excited about that victory, that could have been by a larger margin given how below par the Australians were.

Fiji, by contrast, were much more dangerous and presented a much more difficult challenge.

Long-term Potential

The young playmaker remains just 23 - projecting forward 24 months, with Ford challenging him while providing support, I think Smith will find himself in an excellent place in his career.

The Harlequins star also has to be considered as a possibility at the right time and versus suitable opponents.

He's progressing in his career and is starting to find his feet, though he needs the freedom to demonstrate his unique attributes.

Bench Impact

New Zealand introduced their impact player, who scored the decisive score to beat Scotland, demonstrating the significance of having individuals who can make a real impact as substitutes.

That kind of presence can be the deciding factor separating victory a World Cup or not.

McKenzie watches the match unfold from the bench while considering regarding ways he can make a difference when he comes on.

His choices and mistake frequency have enhanced substantially from his initial professional days.

Role Discussion

If we can get Smith to be that kind of impactful performer, then having him among substitutes might prove valuable.

However, currently I believe Marcus is the answer in the number fifteen position, so that is a position remaining up for grabs.

The All Blacks will kick to challenge England's backfield, therefore it must to be watertight.

This role that needs transforming into 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 struggle to identify the advantage fielding him in that position.

I prefer the ball in his hands as much as possible, though I think this should occur among starters, particularly in the final quarter.

Natural Instincts

There are obviously numerous similarities between Ford with Smith.

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

I recall as he received possession at one stage just inside his own half and it looked that opportunity existed should they swung it wide.

But in those split-seconds he thought the team required reversing the opposition as we are up on the scoreboard, so he kicked to pressure them back and turn pressure.

That's the sort of playmaking that wins titles while claiming global tournaments.

All-round Ability

He also has that calmness during intensity directing the players around him, and the understanding that he mustn't always need as primary option.

I want to see him given the opportunity to show this at elite standards soon, similar to George Ford do, particularly during domestic matches repeatedly and week out.

In Argentina, Ford similarly excelled during challenging circumstances, previously one might suggest occasions existed where he didn't fully delivered in the very highest-pressure games.

I think we have playmaking options capable of performing the job, though Smith's defence combined with everything else, establishes him as the more complete versatile player.

Tactical Setup

It also means there's no need to adjust your defensive system while fielding an assertive player occupying the playmaker position, instead of someone who is a little more passive.

One might present compelling arguments favoring Ford beginning with Smith coming off substitution.

There are so many factors that go on behind closed doors, however the management choose to proceed, it will give the opponents difficulties.

That has not always been the situation facing New Zealand, where the focus concentrated solely on picking the optimal individual.

This time, whichever fly-half selected will pressure New Zealand under real pressure.

Smith's capacity to pick optimal kicks while delivering for a potential 50-20 might relieve all the stress off the national team.