England's Coach Tim Southee Unsure on Ashes Availability
The bowler's most recent Test match for New Zealand was against England in December 2024.
England's fast-bowling advisor Southee is currently evaluating what his involvement will be during the forthcoming Ashes contest in Australia.
The former New Zealand seamer is expected to be present for the opening match because of his involvement in the International League T20 tournament, which starts on 2 December in the UAE.
The 36-year-old, aged 36, assumed a role as England's pace bowling advisor in the warmer months after taking 391 scalps in 107 Test matches for New Zealand.
Speaking as England's squad for the opening of three Twenty20 games against New Zealand was named, Southee stated of his participation: "We are still evaluating the situation at the present time.
"We'll see the outcome over the coming days."
England bowling legend Broad had stated the Australian team as their "worst team since 2010", but Southee was in no uncertainty over what to expect during the series, which begins on 21 November.
"I don't think there's ever a poor Aussie side," he remarked.
"Our focus is squarely on what we're trying to do. In my opinion the caliber of [England's] team that's heading out to the host country is excellent.
"It ought to be an thrilling encounter, the Ashes. Not only [are|do] English and Australian people eagerly anticipate it, I think the entire cricketing community is."
But, prior to the English team travel to the city of Perth for the opening Ashes Test, they take on the Kiwis in the city of Christchurch on Saturday.
England XI v New Zealand:
Salt
Buttler
Jacob Bethell
Brook (captain)
Tom Banton
Curran
Jordan Cox
Brydon Carse
Liam Dawson
Rashid
Luke Wood
