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England's fast-bowling advisor Tim Southee is currently evaluating what his involvement will be at the upcoming Ashes series in the host nation.

The former New Zealand pace bowler is expected to be present for the opening match due to his participation in the International League T20 tournament, which begins on 2 December in the UAE.

Southee, 36, took up a position as the English team's fast bowling consultant in the summer after taking 391 wickets in 107 Tests for New Zealand.

Commenting as the English team for the first of three T20 matches against New Zealand was named, Southee said of his availability: "We are still evaluating that at the present time.

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

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

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

"Our focus is squarely on our own objectives. In my opinion the caliber of [the English] team that's going out to the host country is excellent.

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

But, prior to the English team head to Perth for the opening Ashes Test, they face New Zealand in the city of Christchurch on Saturday.

England XI v the Kiwis:

• Phil Salt

• Jos Buttler

• Jacob Bethell

• Brook (captain)

• Tom Banton

• Curran

• Jordan Cox

• Carse

• Liam Dawson

• Adil Rashid

• Luke Wood