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According to rugby specialists, Fin Smith has demonstrated why he deserves the starting position for the national team's fly-half against New Zealand this weekend.

Fin Smith produced arguably the most impressive defensive performance we have seen by an English fly-half in several years.

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

His tactical control was also immense - he showed a perfect blend of skill and composure, and made some strong choices during moments didn't proceed to plan in the first half.

Tackling Prowess Coupled with Tactical Leadership

His ability to settle the squad tactically while making big calls is something he has truly nailed.

From my perspective, the young fly-half represents England's number one fly-half and he should begin against New Zealand next week.

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

Squad Decisions and Competition

George Ford started last Saturday against Australia due to captaincy considerations, with some aspect of that decision aimed at ensuring consistency while acknowledging his form during the visit of Argentina.

However, the national team's performance versus the Pacific Islanders represented a marked step up from the performance versus the Wallabies.

The Wallabies were defeated on Italian soil on Saturday, therefore we must avoid becoming overly excited about that victory, which should have been more comprehensive given how off the pace Australia performed.

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

Future Prospects

Fin Smith remains just twenty-three - projecting forward two years, alongside Ford challenging him while providing support, I think Smith will find himself in a very strong position in his career.

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

He's progressing in his career and is starting to establish himself, but he also requires liberty to demonstrate his distinctive attributes.

Substitute Influence

The All Blacks brought on Damian McKenzie, who registered the decisive try defeating Scotland, and that shows the significance of having players capable of creating a real impact as substitutes.

That kind of presence can be the difference separating victory the global tournament or not.

The All Blacks substitute observes the match unfold from the bench and thinks about how he can make an impact upon entering.

His decision-making and error rate have enhanced significantly since his early professional days.

Role Discussion

Should we develop Marcus as that kind of impactful performer, then having him in the backfield might prove valuable.

Nonetheless, at the moment I believe Marcus represents the solution at full-back, making it a position that is still up for grabs.

The All Blacks will kick to challenge the English defensive line, so it has to be impenetrable.

It is a position requiring transforming into a real strength, both defensively and in terms offensive transitions threat.

Right now, I believe Smith is a full-back at the highest level.

I find it difficult to see the advantage fielding him there.

I prefer the ball in his hands frequently, but I believe that should be in the front line, especially during the last quarter.

Innate Qualities

Clearly there exist a lot of parallels comparing Ford and Fin Smith.

Fin has the ability executing right choices during tense moments - his instincts represent traits you can really coach.

I recall as he received possession during one phase just inside his own half appearing like it could be should they swung it wide.

But in those split-seconds he calculated the team required reversing the opposition as we are leading points-wise, therefore he punted it to pin them back and turn the screw.

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

Complete Package

He also has that calmness under pressure directing the players nearby, while recognizing that he doesn't always need as primary option.

I hope to witness him given the chance to show this at elite level next week, just as we have seen the veteran do, particularly during domestic matches week in and week out.

During the South American tour, Ford also stood up during challenging circumstances, previously one might suggest occasions existed he has not quite delivered in the very highest-pressure matches.

I believe England possesses two fly-halves capable of performing the role, but with Fin's defence on top of everything else, establishes him as the more complete all-round performer.

Tactical Setup

It also means there's no need to modify the defensive structure while fielding someone aggressive occupying the playmaker channel, rather than someone who is somewhat reserved.

One might present compelling arguments for Ford starting with Smith coming off the bench.

Numerous considerations that go on behind closed doors, however the management decide to go, it will give New Zealand problems.

That has not always been the narrative facing New Zealand, when attention was simply on picking the right player.

On this occasion, whichever fly-half selected can put New Zealand under real pressure.

Fin's ability to pick the right kick while delivering enabling possible 50-20 can take all the stress off the national team.