England's Bowling Consultant Southee Unsure on The Ashes Participation

England's fast-bowling advisor Southee is currently evaluating the extent of his role will be during the upcoming Ashes contest in Australia.

The ex- Kiwi seamer is expected to be available for the opening match because of his participation in the International League T20 tournament, which begins on December 2 in the UAE.

Southee, aged 36, assumed a role as the English team's pace bowling advisor in the warmer months after claiming 391 scalps in 107 Test matches for New Zealand.

Commenting as the English team for the opening of three Twenty20 games against the Kiwis was announced, Southee stated of his availability: "We are still evaluating that at the moment.

"We will determine the outcome over the coming days."

English bowling legend Broad had stated the Australia side as their "worst team since 2010", but the consultant was in no uncertainty over the anticipated challenge during the series, which starts on November 21.

"I don't think there's at any time a poor Aussie side," he said.

"Our focus is firmly on what we're trying to do. I think the caliber of [England's] team that's going out to the host country is excellent.

"It should be an thrilling encounter, that series. Not just [are|do] English and Australian people eagerly anticipate it, I think the whole cricket world is."

But, before the English team head to the city of Perth for the opening Ashes Test, they face the Kiwis in Christchurch on Saturday.

England's Playing XI v New Zealand:

• Phil Salt

• Buttler

• Bethell

• Brook (captain)

• Tom Banton

• Curran

• Cox

• Carse

• Liam Dawson

• Adil Rashid

• Wood