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In expert analysis, Fin Smith has demonstrated why he deserves the first-choice spot as England's fly-half against the All Blacks on Saturday.

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

His courageous approach through regularly completing defensive hits versus an aggressive Fiji side stood out remarkably.

His tactical control was also immense - he showed an excellent balance of skill and control, while executing several crucial decisions when things didn't proceed as expected in the first half.

Defensive Excellence and Strategic Leadership

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

In my opinion, Fin Smith is England's number one fly-half and deserves to start against the All Blacks this weekend.

I think head coach Steve Borthwick sees it that way as well, since Smith has demonstrated his capability during important international games.

Team Selection Amid Rivalry

The experienced fly-half started the previous weekend versus the Wallabies for leadership considerations, and part of that decision was to provide continuity and reward his form during the visit to South America.

But England's performance against Fiji was a significant step up from the performance versus the Wallabies.

Australia lost on Italian soil last weekend, so we should not get overly excited with that win, that could have been by a larger margin given how below par the Australians were.

The Fijian team, by contrast, were much more dangerous and presented a much more difficult challenge.

Future Prospects

Fin Smith remains just twenty-three - looking ahead 24 months, with Ford challenging him but also offering backup, I think Fin will be in a very strong place as a player.

The Harlequins star also has to be considered as an option at the right time and versus the right opposition.

He is developing in his career while beginning to establish himself, though he requires liberty to demonstrate his distinctive qualities.

Bench Impact

The All Blacks introduced Damian McKenzie, who scored the match-winning score defeating Scotland, demonstrating the significance of having individuals capable of creating a real impact as substitutes.

Such type of presence might represent the difference between winning the global tournament from failure.

McKenzie observes the game unfold while substituted and thinks about how to create a difference upon entering.

His choices and error rate have enhanced significantly since his early professional days.

Role Discussion

Should we develop Marcus as such type of impactful performer, including him in the backfield might prove beneficial.

However, currently I don't think he represents the solution in the number fifteen position, making it a position that is still up for grabs.

New Zealand are likely to punt testing the English defensive line, so it has remain impenetrable.

This role requiring transforming into a genuine asset, both defensively and in terms of the counter-attack threat.

Right now, I don't think Smith functions as full-back in top-tier rugby.

I struggle to see the advantage fielding him there.

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

Innate Qualities

There are obviously numerous similarities between Ford with Smith.

Fin has the ability to make right choices during tense moments - his instincts represent traits that can be taught.

I remember as he received possession during one phase just inside his territory and it looked that opportunity existed should they swung it wide.

However during these split-seconds he calculated the team required reversing Fiji round since England were leading points-wise, therefore he punted to pressure them back and turn the screw.

This represents the type of fly-half play securing championships and wins global tournaments.

All-round Ability

He additionally possesses composure during intensity to organise the players nearby, while recognizing that he doesn't always need as primary receiver.

I want to see him receiving the chance demonstrating that at the highest standards soon, just as we have seen George Ford accomplish, particularly during domestic matches repeatedly and week out.

During the South American tour, the experienced fly-half similarly excelled in difficult situations, previously you could argue occasions existed where he didn't fully done so in the very highest-pressure games.

I think England possesses two fly-halves who can do the job, but with Fin's defensive work on top of everything else, it makes him the better-rounded all-round performer.

Defensive System

It also means you don't have to adjust your defensive system while fielding an assertive player in the fly-half channel, rather than an individual being somewhat passive.

You could also present compelling arguments favoring Ford beginning with Smith entering from the bench.

Numerous considerations occurring behind closed doors, however the coaches decide to go, this will present the opponents problems.

That has not always been the narrative against the All Blacks, where the focus was simply on selecting the optimal individual.

On this occasion, either playmaker they choose can put the All Blacks under real pressure.

Smith's capacity selecting optimal kicks and execute for a potential 50-20 can take all the stress away from England.