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

The ex- New Zealand seamer is only likely to be available for the opening match because of his participation in the International League T20 tournament, which starts on December 2 in the UAE.

The 36-year-old, aged 36, took up a position as the English team's fast bowling consultant in the summer after claiming 391 wickets in 107 Tests for New Zealand.

Speaking as the English team for the first of three Twenty20 games against the Kiwis was announced, he said of his availability: "We are still evaluating that at the present time.

"We will determine the outcome over the next little while."

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

"I don't think there's ever a poor Australian cricket team," he remarked.

"Our focus is squarely on what we're trying to do. I think the quality of [the English] team that's going out to Australia is brilliant.

"It ought to be an absolute cracker, that series. Not only [are|do] fans from both nations eagerly anticipate it, I believe the entire cricketing community is."

However, before the English team head to Perth for the opening Ashes Test, they take on New Zealand in Christchurch on Saturday.

England XI v New Zealand:

• Salt

• Buttler

• Bethell

• Harry Brook (c)

• Tom Banton

• Curran

• Jordan Cox

• Brydon Carse

• Dawson

• Rashid

• Wood