London, May 15 – Former New Zealand fast bowler Tim Southee has been appointed as England’s Specialist Skills Consultant for their upcoming five-match Test series against India, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) announced on Thursday.
The high-profile Test series is set to begin on June 20 at Headingley, Leeds, and will conclude with the final match at The Oval from July 31 to August 4.
Southee, who retired from international cricket in December 2024 as New Zealand's all-time leading wicket-taker, will join the England squad ahead of their international season opener — a one-off Test against Zimbabwe at Trent Bridge scheduled for next Thursday.
In a statement, the ECB highlighted Southee’s extensive global experience, stating, "With his vast experience of playing in a wide range of conditions around the world and across all formats, he brings valuable insight and knowledge to the players."
Following his consultancy role with the England team, Southee is set to return to competitive cricket, resuming his playing duties in The Hundred for the Birmingham Phoenix.
The 36-year-old boasts an illustrious international record, having taken 391 wickets in 107 Tests, 221 wickets in 161 ODIs, and 164 wickets in 126 T20 Internationals.