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England's fast-bowling advisor Southee is still working through what his involvement will be during the upcoming Ashes series in the host nation.

The former Kiwi pace bowler is only likely to be available for the first Test due to his involvement in the International League T20 tournament, which begins on 2 December in the United Arab Emirates.

The 36-year-old, aged 36, assumed a position as the English team's fast bowling consultant in the warmer months after taking 391 scalps in 107 Test matches for New Zealand.

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

"We will determine the outcome over the coming days."

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

"I don't think there's ever a bad Aussie side," Southee said.

"The team's attention is squarely on what we're trying to do. In my opinion the quality of [the English] side that's heading out to Australia is brilliant.

"It should be an thrilling encounter, the Ashes. Not just [are|do] fans from both nations eagerly anticipate it, I believe the whole cricket world is."

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

England XI v New Zealand:

• Phil Salt

• Buttler

• Bethell

• Brook (captain)

• Banton

• Curran

• Jordan Cox

• Brydon Carse

• Dawson

• Rashid

• Wood