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England fast-bowling advisor Tim Southee is still working through the extent of his role will be during the forthcoming Ashes series in Australia.

The ex- Kiwi pace bowler is expected to be available for the first Test due to his involvement in the ILT20 competition, which starts on 2 December in the United Arab Emirates.

The 36-year-old, 36, took up a role as England's pace bowling advisor in the warmer months after taking 391 scalps in 107 Tests for the Kiwis.

Speaking as England's team for the first of three T20 matches against New Zealand was announced, he said of his availability: "We're still working through that at the present time.

"We'll see what happens over the next little while."

England pace icon Stuart Broad had stated the Australia team as their "worst team since 2010", but the consultant was in little doubt over the anticipated challenge during the contest, which starts on November 21.

"In my view there's at any time a bad Aussie side," Southee remarked.

"The team's attention is firmly on what we're trying to do. In my opinion the quality of [England's] side that's heading out to the host country is excellent.

"It ought to be an thrilling encounter, that series. Not only [are|do] English and Australian people eagerly anticipate it, I believe the whole cricket world is."

However, before England travel to Perth for the first Ashes match, they face the Kiwis in the city of Christchurch on Saturday.

England XI v New Zealand:

• Phil Salt

• Jos Buttler

• Bethell

• Brook (captain)

• Banton

• Curran

• Jordan Cox

• Brydon Carse

• Liam Dawson

• Rashid

• Wood