England's Bowling Consultant Southee Uncertain on Ashes Availability
Tim Southee's most recent Test match for the Kiwis was versus the English side in December 2024.
England fast-bowling advisor Southee is currently evaluating what his involvement will be at the forthcoming Ashes contest in the host nation.
The former Kiwi pace bowler is only likely to be available for the opening match because of his participation in the International League T20 competition, which starts on 2 December in the United Arab Emirates.
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 the Kiwis.
Commenting as England's squad for the opening of three T20 matches against New Zealand was named, he stated of his participation: "We're still working through that at the present time.
"We will determine the outcome over the coming days."
England pace icon Broad had stated the Australian team as their "worst team since 2010", but the consultant was in little doubt over what to expect during the contest, which starts on 21 November.
"I don't think there's at any time a bad Australian cricket team," he said.
"Our focus is squarely on what we're trying to do. I think the caliber of [England's] team that's going out to Australia is excellent.
"It ought to be an absolute cracker, that series. Not just [are|do] fans from both nations looking forward to it, I think the entire cricketing community is."
But, prior to England head to Perth for the first Ashes match, they face the Kiwis in the city of Christchurch on this Saturday.
England XI v New Zealand:
Phil Salt
Jos Buttler
Bethell
Harry Brook (c)
Banton
Curran
Cox
Brydon Carse
Dawson
Adil Rashid
Luke Wood
