England Coach Southee Unsure on Ashes Availability

England's fast-bowling advisor Tim Southee is currently evaluating the extent of his role will be at the upcoming Ashes contest in the host nation.

The former Kiwi pace bowler is only likely to be available for the opening match because of his involvement in the International League T20 competition, which begins on 2 December in the UAE.

Southee, 36, assumed a position as the English team's pace bowling advisor in the warmer months after taking 391 scalps in 107 Tests for the Kiwis.

Speaking as England's squad for the opening of three T20 matches against the Kiwis was announced, Southee said of his availability: "We are still evaluating the situation at the moment.

"We'll see what happens over the coming days."

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

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

"Our focus is squarely on what we're trying to do. In my opinion the quality of [England's] side that's going out to the host country is brilliant.

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

However, before the English team travel to the city of Perth for the opening Ashes Test, they take on the Kiwis in Christchurch on this Saturday.

England XI v the Kiwis:

• Phil Salt

• Jos Buttler

• Bethell

• Harry Brook (c)

• Tom Banton

• Sam Curran

• Jordan Cox

• Brydon Carse

• Liam Dawson

• Rashid

• Luke Wood