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England's bowling consultant Southee is still working through what his involvement will be at the forthcoming Ashes contest in the host nation.

The ex- Kiwi seamer is only likely to be available for the opening match due to his involvement in the International League T20 competition, which starts on 2 December in the UAE.

The 36-year-old, 36, assumed a position as England's pace bowling advisor in the warmer months after claiming 391 wickets in 107 Tests for New Zealand.

Speaking as England's squad for the first of three T20 matches against the Kiwis was named, Southee stated of his availability: "We're still working through the situation at the present time.

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

England bowling legend Stuart Broad had stated the Australian side as their "worst team since 2010", but Southee was in little doubt over what to expect during the contest, which begins on November 21.

"In my view there's at any time a poor Aussie side," he said.

"Our focus is squarely on what we're trying to do. I think the caliber of [England's] side that's going out to the host country is brilliant.

"It should be an thrilling encounter, the Ashes. Not only [are|do] English and Australian people eagerly anticipate it, I think the entire cricketing community is."

However, prior to the English team travel to Perth for the opening Ashes Test, they take on New Zealand in the city of Christchurch on Saturday.

England's Playing XI v New Zealand:

• Phil Salt

• Buttler

• Jacob Bethell

• Harry Brook (c)

• Banton

• Sam Curran

• Cox

• Brydon Carse

• Dawson

• Adil Rashid

• Luke Wood