England considers Tim Southee for fast-bowling consultant role

England is reportedly considering former New Zealand pacer Tim Southee as their fast-bowling consultant for the upcoming home summer, as James Anderson is unavailable due to county cricket commitments. Southee, who retired from international cricket in December as New Zealand's all-time leading wicket-taker, is noted for his strong relationship with England head coach Brendon McCullum, himself a former New Zealand teammate. If appointed, Southee would join McCullum and Jeetan Patel, another former New Zealand international, on the England coaching staff. The consultant's primary responsibility would be to guide England's pace bowlers through a crucial period that includes a five-Test series against India and the Ashes in Australia later in the year. Other candidates are also being considered for the role. England's summer commences with a Test against Zimbabwe, followed by a white-ball series versus the West Indies before the marquee India series.