England Bowling Consultant Southee Uncertain on Ashes Availability
Tim Southee's last Test for the Kiwis was against England in December 2024.
England's bowling consultant Southee is still working through the extent of his role will be at the upcoming Ashes contest in Australia.
The former Kiwi pace bowler is expected to be present for the opening match because of his involvement in the ILT20 competition, which starts on 2 December in the United Arab Emirates.
The 36-year-old, aged 36, took up a role as England's pace bowling advisor in the warmer months after claiming 391 wickets in 107 Test matches for the Kiwis.
Commenting as England's squad for the first of three Twenty20 games against New Zealand was announced, Southee stated of his availability: "We are still evaluating that at the present time.
"We will determine the outcome over the next little while."
England pace icon Broad had stated the Australia team as their "worst team since 2010", but Southee was in little doubt over what to expect during the series, which begins on 21 November.
"I don't think there's ever a poor Aussie side," Southee remarked.
"The team's attention is firmly on our own objectives. I think the caliber of [England's] side that's going out to Australia is excellent.
"It should be an thrilling encounter, that series. Not only [are|do] English and Australian people eagerly anticipate it, I believe the whole cricket world is."
But, prior to England head to Perth for the opening Ashes Test, they take on the Kiwis in Christchurch on this Saturday.
England's Playing XI v the Kiwis:
Phil Salt
Buttler
Bethell
Brook (captain)
Banton
Sam Curran
Cox
Carse
Liam Dawson
Rashid
Luke Wood
