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In expert analysis, the young playmaker has demonstrated why he deserves the starting position as England's number ten against the All Blacks on Saturday.

The Northampton Saints star delivered without doubt the best defensive display observed by an English playmaker for quite some time.

His courageous approach by consistently making his tackles versus a physical Fiji side stood out remarkably.

His game management was also immense - he showed a perfect blend of finesse and composure, while executing several crucial choices when things didn't proceed to plan during the opening period.

Defensive Excellence and Strategic Command

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 primary playmaker and he should start against New Zealand this weekend.

I think head coach Steve Borthwick views it that way too, since Smith has proven his capability in big international games.

Squad Decisions and Competition

The experienced fly-half started last Saturday against Australia due to captaincy reasons, with some aspect of that choice was to provide consistency and reward his form from the tour to South America.

However, the national team's showing against Fiji was a significant step up compared to the display versus the Wallabies.

The Wallabies lost in Italy on Saturday, therefore we must not get overly excited with that win, which should have been more comprehensive considering how off the pace Australia performed.

Fiji, on the other hand, were much more dangerous and presented a far tougher challenge.

Long-term Potential

The young playmaker is still only 23 - looking ahead two years, alongside Ford pushing him while providing backup, I believe Smith will find himself in a very strong place as a player.

Marcus Smith also has to be considered as an option at the right time and versus suitable opponents.

He's progressing in his career while beginning to establish himself, though he needs the freedom to show his unique attributes.

Substitute Influence

The All Blacks brought on Damian McKenzie, who registered the decisive score 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 a World Cup or not.

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

His choices and error rate have improved substantially since his early professional days.

Positional Debate

Should we develop Marcus as such type of impactful player, then having him among substitutes might prove valuable.

However, currently I don't think Marcus represents the solution at full-back, so that is a position that is still up for grabs.

The All Blacks will kick to challenge the English backfield, therefore it must remain watertight.

It is a position requiring transforming into a real strength, both defensively and in terms of the counter-attack danger.

Currently, I don't think Smith is a full-back at the highest level.

I struggle to identify the benefit of playing him in that position.

I prefer the ball in his hands frequently, though I think this should occur in the front line, particularly in the final quarter.

Natural Instincts

Clearly there exist numerous similarities comparing Ford and Fin Smith.

Fin has the capacity to make the correct choices during tense moments - his natural reactions represent traits that can be coach.

I remember when he got possession at one stage just inside his own half and it looked that opportunity existed on if they spread play.

However during these split-seconds he thought the team required to turn the opposition since England were leading points-wise, therefore he punted to pressure the opponents and turn the screw.

That's the sort of playmaking securing championships while claiming global tournaments.

Complete Package

He additionally possesses composure under pressure to organise the players around him, and the understanding that he doesn't constantly serve to be the first receiver.

I want to see him receiving the opportunity demonstrating that at the highest standards soon, similar to George Ford do, especially at club level repeatedly and week out.

During the South American tour, the experienced fly-half similarly excelled during challenging circumstances, previously one might suggest there have been times he has not quite done so in the very highest-pressure games.

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 more complete versatile player.

Defensive System

This also indicates you don't have to adjust the defensive structure when you have someone aggressive in the fly-half position, instead of someone who is somewhat passive.

You could also present compelling arguments favoring Ford beginning and Fin Smith coming off substitution.

Numerous considerations occurring privately, but whichever way the coaches decide to go, it will give the opponents problems.

This hasn't consistently represented the situation facing New Zealand, when attention concentrated solely on selecting the right player.

On this occasion, either playmaker selected will pressure the All Blacks under real pressure.

Fin's ability selecting the right kick and execute for a potential 50-20 can take pressure off the national team.