The Reasons Fin Smith Is The National Team's Number One Fly-Half
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In expert analysis, the young playmaker has demonstrated that he merits the starting position as England's number ten versus the All Blacks this weekend.
The Northampton Saints star delivered arguably the most impressive defensive display observed from an England playmaker for quite some time.
His courageous approach by consistently making defensive hits against a physical Fijian team was impressive.
His game management was also immense - he showed an excellent balance of skill and composure, and made some strong decisions when things were not going to plan in the first half.
Tackling Prowess and Strategic Command
His ability to calm the team strategically while making big calls represents an aspect he has truly mastered.
From my perspective, Fin Smith represents England's number one playmaker and deserves to begin versus the All Blacks next week.
I believe the manager Steve Borthwick sees it that way too, since Smith has demonstrated he can perform during important Test matches.
Squad Decisions and Competition
George Ford started the previous weekend against Australia for leadership considerations, and part of that choice aimed at ensuring continuity while acknowledging his form during the visit to South America.
However, the national team's performance against Fiji was a significant step up from the performance against Australia.
Australia were defeated on Italian soil last weekend, therefore we must not get overly excited with that win, that could have been more comprehensive considering how off the pace the Australians were.
The Fijian team, on the other hand, were much more dangerous while offering a far tougher challenge.
Future Prospects
Fin Smith remains just 23 - looking ahead two years, with Ford challenging him while providing support, I believe Fin will be in a very strong place as a player.
The Harlequins star must also be considered as a possibility at the right time and versus the right opposition.
He's progressing in his career and is starting to establish himself, though he needs the freedom to demonstrate his unique qualities.
Substitute Influence
New Zealand introduced their impact player, who scored the match-winning score to beat the Scottish team, and that shows the importance of having individuals who can make a real impact from the bench.
That kind of presence might represent the deciding factor between winning the global tournament from failure.
The All Blacks substitute observes the match unfold while substituted and thinks regarding ways he can make a difference when he comes on.
His choices and mistake frequency have enhanced significantly from his initial career.
Positional Debate
Should we develop Smith to be that kind influential player, including him among substitutes might prove beneficial.
However, at the moment I believe he represents the solution in the number fifteen position, making it a role that is still up for grabs.
The All Blacks will kick testing England's defensive line, therefore it must remain watertight.
This role that needs to become a real strength, both defensively and in terms of the counter-attack danger.
Currently, I believe Marcus functions as full-back in top-tier rugby.
I find it difficult to identify the benefit of playing him there.
I prefer possession under his control as much as possible, though I think that should be in the front line, especially in the final quarter.
Natural Instincts
Clearly there exist numerous parallels comparing Ford with Smith.
Smith possesses the ability executing the correct decisions during tense moments - his instincts represent traits that can be taught.
I recall when he got possession at one stage within his territory appearing like it could be should they swung it wide.
But in those split-seconds he thought the team required reversing the opposition since England were leading points-wise, therefore he punted to pressure them back applying pressure.
This represents the type of fly-half play that wins championships and wins global tournaments.
Complete Package
He additionally possesses composure under pressure directing teammates nearby, while recognizing that he mustn't always need to be the first receiver.
I want to see him given the opportunity to show this at elite standards soon, similar to the veteran do, especially at domestic matches repeatedly and week out.
In Argentina, Ford also stood up in difficult circumstances, previously you could argue occasions existed where he didn't fully done so during extremely tense games.
I believe we have playmaking options who can do the job, though Smith's defence combined with additional qualities, it makes him the better-rounded all-round player.
Defensive System
It also means you don't have to modify the defensive structure while fielding someone aggressive occupying the playmaker channel, instead of an individual being a little more passive.
You could also make a strong case favoring Ford beginning with Smith coming off the bench.
Numerous factors occurring privately, but whichever way the coaches decide to go, it will give New Zealand difficulties.
That has not always been the narrative against the All Blacks, when attention concentrated solely on selecting the right player.
This time, whichever fly-half they choose can put the All Blacks under real pressure.
Fin's ability to pick the right kick and execute enabling possible 50-20 might relieve all the stress away from the national team.