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England's bowling consultant Southee is still working through the extent of his role will be at the upcoming Ashes contest in the host nation.

The ex- Kiwi pace bowler is expected to be present for the opening match because of his involvement in the International League T20 tournament, which begins on 2 December in the UAE.

The 36-year-old, 36, took up a role as the English team's pace bowling advisor in the summer after claiming 391 wickets in 107 Test matches for the Kiwis.

Commenting as the English team for the opening of three T20 matches against New Zealand was announced, he said of his participation: "We are still evaluating that at the present time.

"We will determine what happens over the next little while."

English pace icon Stuart Broad had declared the Australia side as their "worst team since 2010", but Southee was in no uncertainty over the anticipated challenge during the contest, which begins on November 21.

"I don't think there's at any time a bad Aussie side," Southee remarked.

"Our focus is firmly on what we're trying to do. In my opinion the caliber of [England's] side that's going out to Australia is brilliant.

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

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

England XI v New Zealand:

• Phil Salt

• Jos Buttler

• Jacob Bethell

• Brook (captain)

• Banton

• Curran

• Cox

• Carse

• Liam Dawson

• Adil Rashid

• Wood