England's Coach Tim Southee Unsure on Ashes Availability

England's bowling consultant Southee is currently evaluating what his involvement will be at the forthcoming Ashes contest in the host nation.

The ex- Kiwi pace bowler is only likely to be present for the first Test due to his participation in the ILT20 tournament, which begins on December 2 in the UAE.

Southee, aged 36, assumed a position as England's fast bowling consultant in the warmer months after claiming 391 scalps in 107 Tests for New Zealand.

Speaking as England's team for the first of three Twenty20 games against New Zealand was announced, he stated of his availability: "We're still working through that at the present time.

"We will determine what happens over the next little while."

England bowling legend Stuart Broad had declared the Australia team as their "weakest squad since 2010", but the consultant was in no uncertainty over the anticipated challenge during the contest, which starts on 21 November.

"I don't think there's ever a poor Australian cricket team," Southee remarked.

"The team's attention is firmly on our own objectives. In my opinion the caliber of [England's] side that's heading out to Australia is brilliant.

"It should be an thrilling encounter, that series. Not just [are|do] English and Australian people eagerly anticipate it, I believe the entire cricketing community is."

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

England XI v the Kiwis:

• Phil Salt

• Jos Buttler

• Jacob Bethell

• Brook (captain)

• Tom Banton

• Sam Curran

• Cox

• Brydon Carse

• Dawson

• Rashid

• Wood