England’s bowling consultant Tim Southee has revealed uncertainty over his involvement in the upcoming Ashes series in Australia, with the former New Zealand seamer likely only available for the opening Test due to his commitments in the International League T20 (ILT20) tournament.

Southee, 36, joined England as a fast bowling consultant in the summer of 2025 after an illustrious international career, taking 391 wickets in 107 Tests for New Zealand. His expertise is expected to guide England’s pace attack during the high-profile Ashes series, which begins on 21 November 2025 in Perth.

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Southee’s Availability and T20 Commitments

Speaking ahead of England’s first of three T20 matches against New Zealand, Southee commented:
“We’re still working through that at the moment. We’ll see what happens over the next little while.”

The International League T20 tournament, beginning on 2 December in the United Arab Emirates, conflicts with the latter stages of the Ashes, making it unlikely that Southee will be available for all five Tests. For now, England will rely on his guidance primarily for the first Test while planning strategies for the rest of the series.

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Expectations for the Ashes Series

Despite his partial availability, Southee expressed confidence in the England squad. Reacting to bowling legend Stuart Broad’s remarks calling the Australian team the “worst since 2010,” Southee offered a more measured view:
“I don’t think there’s ever a bad Australian cricket team. Our focus is firmly on what we’re trying to do.”

He praised the quality of England’s side, highlighting the team’s potential to challenge Australia in what he predicted would be an “absolute cracker” of a series. The Ashes, one of cricket’s most iconic rivalries, continues to attract global attention, with fans from England, Australia, and around the world eagerly anticipating the clash.

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England’s Upcoming Fixtures

Before the Ashes begins, England faces New Zealand in Christchurch, with the team set to include a mix of experienced internationals and emerging talent:

England XI vs New Zealand:

• Phil Salt
• Jos Buttler
• Jacob Bethell
• Harry Brook (c)
• Tom Banton
• Sam Curran
• Jordan Cox
• Brydon Carse
• Liam Dawson
• Adil Rashid
• Luke Wood

Southee’s insights and coaching are expected to enhance England’s bowling attack, particularly in the opening stages of the Ashes, helping the team adapt to Australian conditions.

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Key Takeaways

• Tim Southee, England’s bowling consultant, is unsure about full Ashes involvement due to ILT20 commitments.
• Likely only available for the first Test of the 2025-26 Ashes series.
• Southee praises the quality of the England squad and anticipates a competitive series against Australia.
• England faces New Zealand in Christchurch before heading to Australia for the Ashes.
• The Ashes series begins on 21 November 2025, drawing global attention from cricket fans.