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England's fast-bowling advisor Southee is still working through what his involvement will be during the forthcoming Ashes contest in Australia.

The ex- New Zealand pace bowler is only likely to be available for the opening match due to his involvement in the International League T20 tournament, which begins on December 2 in the United Arab Emirates.

The 36-year-old, 36, took up a position as England's pace bowling advisor in the warmer months after taking 391 wickets in 107 Tests for the Kiwis.

Speaking as the English team for the first of three T20 matches against the Kiwis was announced, Southee stated of his availability: "We are still evaluating that at the moment.

"We will determine what happens over the coming days."

English bowling legend Broad had stated the Australian team as their "weakest squad since 2010", but the consultant was in little doubt over the anticipated challenge during the series, which begins on 21 November.

"In my view there's ever a poor Australian cricket team," Southee remarked.

"The team's attention is firmly on our own objectives. I think the caliber of [England's] team that's heading out to the host country is excellent.

"It ought to be an thrilling encounter, the Ashes. Not only [are|do] fans from both nations looking forward to it, I think the whole cricket world is."

However, prior to the English team travel to the city of Perth for the opening Ashes Test, they take on New Zealand in Christchurch on Saturday.

England XI v the Kiwis:

• Salt

• Jos Buttler

• Bethell

• Harry Brook (c)

• Banton

• Sam Curran

• Cox

• Brydon Carse

• Liam Dawson

• Adil Rashid

• Luke Wood