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In expert analysis, Fin Smith has shown why he deserves the starting position as England's number ten versus the All Blacks this weekend.

The Northampton Saints star produced arguably the best defensive display we have seen from an England playmaker in several years.

His courageous approach through regularly completing his tackles versus a physical Fiji side was impressive.

His tactical control was also immense - he showed a perfect blend of skill and control, and made some strong decisions when things didn't proceed as expected in the first half.

Defensive Excellence Coupled with Tactical Command

His ability to settle the squad tactically while making big calls represents an aspect he has truly nailed.

In my opinion, Fin Smith is England's primary fly-half and he should start versus the All Blacks this weekend.

I believe head coach Steve Borthwick sees it that way too, since Smith has demonstrated he can perform during important Test matches.

Squad Decisions and Competition

The experienced fly-half started last Saturday against Australia for leadership considerations, and part of that choice aimed at ensuring continuity while acknowledging his form during the visit of Argentina.

However, the national team's performance versus the Pacific Islanders was a significant improvement compared to the display versus the Wallabies.

The Wallabies were defeated in Italy last weekend, therefore we must not get too carried away about that victory, that could have been by a larger margin considering how below par Australia were.

The Fijian team, by contrast, proved significantly dangerous while offering a much more difficult challenge.

Future Prospects

Fin Smith is still only 23 - looking ahead 24 months, alongside Ford pushing him while providing backup, I think Smith will find himself in an excellent position in his career.

The Harlequins star must also be considered as an option when appropriate and against suitable opponents.

He is developing in his career while beginning to find his feet, but he also requires liberty to demonstrate his unique attributes.

Bench Impact

New Zealand brought on Damian McKenzie, who scored the match-winning score defeating Scotland, and that shows the significance of having individuals capable of creating genuine influence from the bench.

Such type of player can be the difference between winning the global tournament from failure.

The All Blacks substitute watches the match unfold from the bench and thinks about how to create a difference when he comes on.

His choices and error rate have enhanced substantially from his initial professional days.

Role Discussion

Should we develop Marcus to be that kind influential player, then having him in the backfield might prove valuable.

However, at the moment I believe he is the answer in the number fifteen position, so that is a role remaining unclaimed.

The All Blacks will kick to challenge England's defensive line, so it has to be impenetrable.

This role that needs transforming into a real strength, in defense while regarding of the counter-attack danger.

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

I find it difficult to identify the benefit of playing him in that position.

I want possession under his control frequently, but I believe that should be among starters, especially in the final 20 minutes.

Natural Instincts

Clearly there exist numerous similarities between Ford with Smith.

Fin has the capacity executing right decisions during tense moments - his instincts are not something you can really coach.

I remember when he got the ball during one phase just inside his territory and it looked like it could be on if they swung it wide.

However during these milliseconds he calculated they needed to turn Fiji round as we are up on the scoreboard, so he kicked to pressure them back applying the screw.

That's the sort of fly-half play securing titles and wins World Cups.

All-round Ability

He additionally possesses composure during intensity directing teammates around him, and the understanding that he mustn't always need as primary receiver.

I want to see him given the opportunity to show this at elite standards soon, just as we have seen George Ford accomplish, especially at domestic matches repeatedly and week out.

In Argentina, the experienced fly-half similarly excelled during challenging situations, previously you could argue occasions existed he has not quite delivered during extremely tense games.

I think England possesses playmaking options who can do the role, though Smith's defence combined with additional qualities, it makes him the more complete versatile performer.

Tactical Setup

It also means there's no need to adjust your defensive system while fielding someone aggressive in the fly-half position, instead of an individual being a little more reserved.

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

Numerous factors occurring behind closed doors, however the coaches decide to go, this will present New Zealand difficulties.

This hasn't consistently represented the narrative facing New Zealand, where the focus was simply on selecting the optimal individual.

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

Fin's ability to pick the right kick and execute enabling possible 50-20 might relieve all the stress off England.