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

The Northampton Saints star produced arguably the most impressive defensive performance we have seen by an English fly-half for quite some time.

How he fronted up by consistently making defensive hits versus an aggressive Fiji side was impressive.

His game management was also immense - he showed a perfect blend of finesse and composure, and made several crucial choices during moments didn't proceed to plan in the first half.

Defensive Excellence Coupled with Tactical Command

His capacity to calm the squad strategically while making big calls is something he has really mastered.

In my opinion, the young fly-half is England's number one fly-half and deserves to begin against New Zealand next week.

I believe head coach the England coach views it similarly too, since Smith has demonstrated his capability during important Test matches.

Squad Decisions Amid Rivalry

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

However, the national team's showing against Fiji was a significant step up from the performance against Australia.

Australia were defeated on Italian soil on Saturday, so we should avoid becoming overly excited about that victory, that could have been more comprehensive given how below par Australia performed.

Fiji, on the other hand, proved significantly threatening while offering a far tougher test.

Long-term Potential

Fin Smith remains just 23 - looking ahead two years, alongside Ford pushing him but also offering support, I think Fin will be in an excellent position as a player.

Marcus Smith must also be considered as an option at the right time and versus the right opposition.

He's progressing as a player and is starting to find his feet, but he also needs the freedom to show his unique attributes.

Bench Impact

The All Blacks introduced Damian McKenzie, who registered the decisive score defeating Scotland, demonstrating the importance of having players who can make genuine influence as substitutes.

Such type of player might represent the deciding factor separating victory the global tournament from failure.

The All Blacks substitute observes the match unfold while substituted and thinks regarding ways to create an impact upon entering.

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

Role Discussion

Should we develop Smith as such type of impactful player, then having him in the backfield might prove valuable.

However, currently I don't think he represents the solution at full-back, making it a role remaining unclaimed.

The All Blacks are likely to punt to challenge England's defensive line, therefore it must to be watertight.

This role that needs to become a genuine asset, 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 identify the advantage fielding him in that position.

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

Innate Qualities

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

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

I recall when he got the ball at one stage just inside his territory and it looked like it could be should they swung it wide.

But in those milliseconds he thought the team required reversing Fiji round since England were leading points-wise, therefore he punted to pressure the opponents and turn the screw.

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

Complete Package

He also has that calmness under pressure to organise teammates around him, and the understanding that he mustn't constantly serve as primary option.

I hope to witness him given the opportunity demonstrating that at the highest level next week, similar to George Ford do, especially at domestic matches week in and week out.

During the South American tour, the experienced fly-half similarly excelled in difficult situations, where historically one might suggest occasions existed where he didn't fully done so in the very highest-pressure games.

I think we have playmaking options who can do the role, though Smith's defence combined with everything else, it makes him the more complete versatile player.

Defensive System

This also indicates you don't have to adjust the defensive structure while fielding someone aggressive in the fly-half channel, rather than someone who is somewhat passive.

You could also present compelling arguments for Ford starting with Smith coming off the bench.

There are so many considerations that go on privately, however the coaches choose to proceed, this will present New Zealand difficulties.

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

On this occasion, either playmaker they choose can put the All Blacks significantly.

Smith's capacity selecting optimal kicks and execute for a potential territorial gains can take pressure off the national team.