England's Bowling Consultant Southee Unsure on The Ashes Availability
The bowler's last Test for the Kiwis was versus England in December 2024.
England fast-bowling advisor Southee is still working through what his involvement will be at the forthcoming Ashes series in Australia.
The former Kiwi seamer is expected to be available for the first Test due to his involvement in the ILT20 tournament, which begins on December 2 in the United Arab Emirates.
The 36-year-old, 36, assumed a position as England's fast bowling consultant in the warmer months after taking 391 scalps in 107 Tests for the Kiwis.
Speaking as England's squad for the opening of three T20 matches against the Kiwis was named, he stated of his participation: "We are still evaluating that at the present time.
"We will determine what happens over the next little while."
English bowling legend Stuart Broad had declared the Australian team as their "worst team since 2010", but Southee was in little doubt over what to expect during the contest, which starts on November 21.
"I don't think there's ever a bad Australian cricket team," Southee remarked.
"Our focus is squarely on our own objectives. In my opinion the caliber of [England's] team that's heading out to the host country is excellent.
"It should be an thrilling encounter, the Ashes. Not only [are|do] English and Australian people eagerly anticipate it, I believe the whole cricket world is."
But, prior to England travel to Perth for the opening Ashes Test, they face the Kiwis in the city of Christchurch on Saturday.
England's Playing XI v the Kiwis:
Salt
Buttler
Bethell
Brook (captain)
Banton
Curran
Jordan Cox
Brydon Carse
Dawson
Adil Rashid
Wood
