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According to rugby specialists, Fin Smith has demonstrated that he merits the starting position as England's fly-half versus New Zealand on Saturday.

The Northampton Saints star delivered arguably the best defensive display observed by an English fly-half for quite some time.

How he fronted up through regularly completing defensive hits against an aggressive Fiji side was impressive.

His tactical control was also immense - he showed a perfect blend of skill and composure, while executing several crucial decisions when things were not going as expected during the opening period.

Defensive Excellence Coupled with Tactical Leadership

His ability to calm the team tactically and make big calls represents an aspect he has truly nailed.

In my opinion, the young fly-half represents England's primary fly-half and he should begin against the All Blacks next week.

I believe head coach the England coach views it that way as well, since Smith has demonstrated he can perform in big international games.

Team Selection Amid Rivalry

George Ford began the previous weekend against Australia for leadership considerations, 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.

The Wallabies were defeated in Italy last weekend, so we should avoid becoming overly excited about that victory, which should have been by a larger margin given how below par Australia were.

Fiji, on the other hand, proved significantly dangerous and presented a far tougher test.

Future Prospects

Fin Smith is still only twenty-three - looking ahead 24 months, with Ford pushing him but also offering backup, I believe Smith will find himself in a very strong place in his career.

The Harlequins star also has to be regarded as a possibility at the right time and versus the right opposition.

He is developing in his career while beginning to find his feet, though he requires liberty to show his unique attributes.

Substitute Influence

The All Blacks brought on Damian McKenzie, who scored the decisive try to beat Scotland, demonstrating the significance of having players who can make a real impact from the bench.

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

McKenzie observes the game unfold from the bench and thinks regarding ways he can make a difference when he comes on.

His decision-making and mistake frequency have enhanced significantly since his early career.

Role Discussion

Should we develop Smith to be such type influential player, then having him among substitutes might prove beneficial.

However, at the moment I don't think Marcus is the answer at full-back, so that is a position that is still unclaimed.

New Zealand are likely to punt to challenge England's defensive line, therefore it must to be impenetrable.

This role that needs transforming into a real strength, in defense while regarding offensive transitions danger.

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

I struggle to identify the benefit fielding him there.

I prefer possession in his hands as much as possible, though I think that should be in the front line, particularly in the final 20 minutes.

Natural Instincts

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

Fin has the ability executing right decisions during tense moments - his natural reactions represent traits you can really taught.

I recall when he got possession during one phase within his own half appearing that opportunity existed on if they spread play.

However during these milliseconds he calculated they needed reversing Fiji round as we are leading points-wise, so he kicked it to pin the opponents and turn pressure.

This represents the type of fly-half play securing titles while claiming World Cups.

Complete Package

He also has composure during intensity to organise teammates around him, and the understanding that he doesn't constantly serve to be the first option.

I want to see him given the chance demonstrating that at the highest standards soon, just as we have seen George Ford accomplish, especially at club level repeatedly and week out.

In Argentina, the experienced fly-half similarly excelled during challenging circumstances, where historically one might suggest there have been times where he didn't fully delivered in the very highest-pressure matches.

I believe England possesses playmaking options who can do the role, though Smith's defence combined with additional qualities, establishes him as the more complete versatile player.

Tactical Setup

It also means you don't have to adjust your defensive system while fielding an assertive player in the fly-half channel, instead of someone who is somewhat passive.

You could also make a strong case favoring Ford beginning with Smith coming off the bench.

There are so many considerations occurring privately, however the management decide to go, it will give New Zealand difficulties.

This hasn't consistently represented the situation against the All Blacks, when attention was simply on selecting the optimal individual.

On this occasion, whichever fly-half they choose can put New Zealand significantly.

Smith's capacity selecting the right kick while delivering enabling possible territorial gains might relieve all the stress off England.