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England 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- New Zealand pace bowler is expected to be present for the first Test due to his involvement in the ILT20 tournament, which begins on December 2 in the UAE.

The 36-year-old, 36, took up a role as England's fast bowling consultant in the warmer months after claiming 391 wickets in 107 Tests for New Zealand.

Speaking as England's squad for the opening of three Twenty20 games against New Zealand was announced, he said of his availability: "We're still working through the situation at the present time.

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

English pace icon Broad had declared the Australian team as their "worst team since 2010", but the consultant was in little doubt over the anticipated challenge during the series, which starts on November 21.

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

"Our focus is squarely on what we're trying to do. In my opinion the caliber of [England's] team that's going out to the host country is excellent.

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

But, prior to the English team head to Perth for the first Ashes match, they face the Kiwis in the city of Christchurch on Saturday.

England's Playing XI v New Zealand:

• Salt

• Jos Buttler

• Bethell

• Brook (captain)

• Banton

• Sam Curran

• Jordan Cox

• Brydon Carse

• Dawson

• Adil Rashid

• Wood