England's Bowling Consultant Tim Southee Uncertain on Ashes Participation

England's bowling consultant Southee is still working through what his involvement will be at the forthcoming Ashes series in the host nation.

The former Kiwi seamer is expected to be available for the first Test because of his involvement in the ILT20 competition, which starts on December 2 in the United Arab Emirates.

The 36-year-old, 36, assumed a role as England's pace bowling advisor in the warmer months after claiming 391 wickets in 107 Tests for the Kiwis.

Speaking as the English squad for the opening of three T20 matches against the Kiwis was announced, he said of his participation: "We're still working through that at the present time.

"We'll see the outcome over the coming days."

English bowling legend Broad had stated the Australian team as their "worst team since 2010", but the consultant was in little doubt over what to expect during the contest, which begins on 21 November.

"In my view there's ever a poor Aussie side," Southee remarked.

"The team's attention is squarely on our own objectives. I think the quality of [England's] side that's heading out to the host country is brilliant.

"It should be an absolute cracker, the Ashes. Not just [are|do] English and Australian people eagerly anticipate it, I believe the whole cricket world is."

But, prior to England travel to the city of Perth for the opening Ashes Test, they take on the Kiwis in Christchurch on Saturday.

England's Playing XI v the Kiwis:

• Phil Salt

• Jos Buttler

• Jacob Bethell

• Harry Brook (c)

• Banton

• Curran

• Cox

• Brydon Carse

• Dawson

• Adil Rashid

• Luke Wood