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England's fast-bowling advisor Tim Southee is still working through the extent of his role will be during the upcoming Ashes contest in the host nation.

The former Kiwi seamer is expected to be present for the opening match because of his involvement in the ILT20 tournament, which starts on December 2 in the United Arab Emirates.

Southee, aged 36, took up a position as England's fast bowling consultant in the warmer months after claiming 391 scalps in 107 Tests for the Kiwis.

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

"We will determine the outcome over the coming days."

England bowling legend Stuart Broad had declared the Australia side as their "weakest squad since 2010", but Southee was in no uncertainty over the anticipated challenge during the series, which begins on 21 November.

"I don't think there's ever a poor Aussie side," Southee said.

"Our focus is squarely on our own objectives. In my opinion the quality of [England's] side that's heading out to the host country is brilliant.

"It ought to be an absolute cracker, that series. Not just [are|do] fans from both nations eagerly anticipate it, I believe the entire cricketing community is."

However, prior to the English team travel to the city of Perth for the opening Ashes Test, they face the Kiwis in the city of Christchurch on Saturday.

England XI v New Zealand:

• Salt

• Jos Buttler

• Jacob Bethell

• Brook (captain)

• Tom Banton

• Curran

• Jordan Cox

• Carse

• Dawson

• Adil Rashid

• Wood