England Coach Tim Southee Uncertain on The Ashes Participation
Tim Southee's most recent Test for New Zealand was against England in December 2024.
England's fast-bowling advisor Tim Southee is currently evaluating what his involvement will be during the upcoming Ashes contest in the host nation.
The ex- Kiwi pace bowler is expected to be available for the opening match because of his participation in the ILT20 tournament, which starts on December 2 in the UAE.
The 36-year-old, aged 36, took up a position as the English team's pace bowling advisor in the warmer months after taking 391 wickets in 107 Test matches for the Kiwis.
Speaking as England's team for the opening of three T20 matches against New Zealand was named, Southee stated of his availability: "We are still evaluating that at the moment.
"We'll see what happens over the coming days."
English 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 contest, which begins on 21 November.
"I don't think there's at any time a bad Aussie side," Southee remarked.
"Our focus is squarely on our own objectives. In my opinion the caliber of [the English] side that's heading out to Australia is excellent.
"It should be an absolute cracker, that series. Not just [are|do] fans from both nations eagerly anticipate it, I think the whole cricket world is."
However, before England head to the city of Perth for the opening Ashes Test, they take on New Zealand in the city of Christchurch on this Saturday.
England's Playing XI v New Zealand:
Salt
Jos Buttler
Jacob Bethell
Harry Brook (c)
Banton
Curran
Jordan Cox
Carse
Dawson
Adil Rashid
Wood
