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England fast-bowling advisor Southee is still working through the extent of his role will be at the upcoming Ashes contest in the host nation.

The former Kiwi pace bowler is expected to be available for the first Test due to his participation in the ILT20 competition, which begins on 2 December in the United Arab Emirates.

Southee, aged 36, assumed a role as the English team's pace bowling advisor in the summer after claiming 391 wickets in 107 Test matches for the Kiwis.

Commenting as the English squad for the opening of three T20 matches against New Zealand was named, Southee stated of his participation: "We are still evaluating that at the moment.

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

English pace icon Broad had stated the Australia side as their "worst team since 2010", but Southee was in little doubt over the anticipated challenge during the contest, which begins 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. In my opinion the caliber of [the English] side that's going out to Australia is excellent.

"It should be an thrilling encounter, that series. Not just [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 Perth for the opening Ashes Test, they take on New Zealand in Christchurch on this Saturday.

England XI v New Zealand:

• Phil Salt

• Buttler

• Bethell

• Harry Brook (c)

• Tom Banton

• Curran

• Jordan Cox

• Carse

• Liam Dawson

• Adil Rashid

• Wood