London, April 30 -- England are considering former New Zealand international Tim Southee as their fast-bowling consultant for the home summer.

James Anderson has held the position since he retired from Test cricket last summer, but is unavailable this year because of his playing commitments with Lancashire.

Seamer Southee, 36, retired from international cricket in December as New Zealand's all-time leading wicket-taker.

He is good friends with England head coach Brendon McCullum, who made a presentation to Southee on the outfield in Hamilton following his final appearance for the Black Caps, the BBC reported.

If Southee joins the England set-up he would become the third New Zealander on the staff, alongside McCullum and assistant coac...