Why England's Rising Star Is England's Top Choice Fly-Half

In expert analysis, the young playmaker has demonstrated why he deserves the starting position for the national team's fly-half against the All Blacks on Saturday.

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

His courageous approach by consistently making defensive hits versus a physical Fiji side stood out remarkably.

His game management proved exceptional - he demonstrated a perfect blend of finesse and control, while executing some strong choices when things were not going to plan in the first half.

Defensive Excellence Coupled with Tactical Leadership

His capacity to calm the squad strategically and make big calls represents an aspect he has truly nailed.

From my perspective, the young fly-half is England's number one playmaker and he should start versus the All Blacks this weekend.

I think head coach Steve Borthwick views it similarly as well, because Fin has proven he can perform in big international games.

Team Selection Amid Rivalry

The experienced fly-half began the previous weekend versus the Wallabies for leadership reasons, and part of that choice aimed at ensuring consistency and reward his form from the tour of Argentina.

However, the national team's performance against Fiji was a significant improvement from the performance versus the Wallabies.

Australia were defeated in Italy on Saturday, so we should avoid becoming too carried away with that win, that could have been more comprehensive considering how off the pace the Australians were.

Fiji, by contrast, were much more dangerous while offering a much more difficult test.

Future Prospects

The young playmaker remains just twenty-three - projecting forward 24 months, alongside Ford pushing him while providing support, I believe Fin will be in a very strong position in his career.

The Harlequins star also has to be regarded as an option when appropriate and against 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 distinctive qualities.

Substitute Influence

The All Blacks brought on their impact player, who registered the decisive score defeating Scotland, and that shows the importance of having players capable of creating a real impact as substitutes.

That kind of player might represent the difference between winning a World Cup or not.

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

His decision-making and mistake frequency have improved substantially from his initial career.

Role Discussion

If we can get Marcus as that kind influential performer, then having him in the backfield could be beneficial.

However, at the moment I believe Marcus is the answer in the number fifteen position, so that is a position that is still unclaimed.

New Zealand will kick testing England's backfield, therefore it must remain watertight.

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

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

I find it difficult to see the advantage of playing him in that position.

I want possession under his control frequently, though I think this should occur among starters, especially during the last 20 minutes.

Innate Qualities

Clearly there exist numerous parallels between Ford and Fin Smith.

Smith possesses the capacity to make the correct decisions under pressure - his instincts are not something you can really coach.

I recall as he received the ball at one stage just inside his own half appearing like it could be should they spread play.

However during these split-seconds he calculated they needed to turn Fiji round since England were leading points-wise, therefore he punted to pressure them back and turn pressure.

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

Complete Package

He additionally possesses composure under pressure directing the players around him, and the understanding that he mustn't always need to be the first receiver.

I want to see him receiving the opportunity demonstrating that at the highest standards soon, similar to George Ford accomplish, particularly during domestic matches week in consistently.

In Argentina, the experienced fly-half similarly excelled in difficult circumstances, where historically one might suggest there have been times he has not quite delivered during extremely tense games.

I believe we have two fly-halves capable of performing the role, but with Fin's defensive work on top of everything else, establishes him as the more complete versatile performer.

Tactical Setup

It also means you don't have to modify the defensive structure while fielding an assertive player in the fly-half channel, instead of someone who is somewhat passive.

One might present compelling arguments favoring Ford beginning with Smith entering from the bench.

Numerous considerations occurring privately, however the management decide to go, it will give 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 selected can put the All Blacks significantly.

Smith's capacity to pick the right kick and execute enabling possible territorial gains can take all the stress off England.