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

The ex- Kiwi pace bowler is expected to be present for the opening match because of his participation in the International League T20 competition, which starts on 2 December in the United Arab Emirates.

Southee, aged 36, took up a position as the English team's pace bowling advisor in the warmer months after claiming 391 wickets in 107 Test matches for New Zealand.

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

"We will determine what happens over the coming days."

English 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 starts on 21 November.

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

"The team's attention is firmly on our own objectives. I think the quality of [England's] side that's heading out to Australia is brilliant.

"It ought to be an thrilling encounter, the Ashes. Not just [are|do] fans from both nations looking forward to it, I think the entire cricketing community is."

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

England XI v the Kiwis:

• Phil Salt

• Buttler

• Bethell

• Brook (captain)

• Tom Banton

• Curran

• Jordan Cox

• Brydon Carse

• Dawson

• Rashid

• Luke Wood