🔗 Share this article

England bowling consultant Southee is currently evaluating what his involvement will be during the upcoming Ashes contest in the host nation.

The former New Zealand seamer is only likely to be present for the opening match due to his participation in the International League T20 competition, which begins on December 2 in the United Arab Emirates.

The 36-year-old, 36, took up a position as the English team's pace bowling advisor in the warmer months after taking 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 named, he said of his availability: "We are still evaluating that at the present time.

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

English bowling legend Stuart Broad had declared the Australia side as their "worst team since 2010", but Southee was in no uncertainty over what to expect during the series, which starts on 21 November.

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

"Our focus is firmly on our own objectives. In my opinion the caliber of [England's] side that's heading out to Australia is excellent.

"It ought to be an thrilling encounter, that series. Not only [are|do] fans from both nations looking forward to it, I believe the entire cricketing community is."

However, prior to the English team travel to the city of Perth for the first Ashes match, they face New Zealand in the city of Christchurch on Saturday.

England XI v the Kiwis:

• Phil Salt

• Jos Buttler

• Bethell

• Harry Brook (c)

• Banton

• Sam Curran

• Jordan Cox

• Brydon Carse

• Dawson

• Rashid

• Luke Wood