Despite turning down an offer to coach England [Images], John Buchanan could be seen in a consultancy role with Andrew Strauss' [Images] team at the forthcoming Ashes series against Australia [Images].

"We have not agreed upon anything formal yet," Buchanan said. "I've had discussions with (England and Wales Cricket Board national performance director) David Parsons and brief talks with Hugh Morris," Australia's former World cup winning coach was quoted as saying by Cricinfo.

"Something may eventuate, something may not ... As I understand it, my (Cricket Australia) contract has not been renewed by the general manager of development. Nothing has been formally told to me, but they have not sent me a new contract, so I assume I have been pushed to one side."

Buchanan, who is currently coach of the Kolkata Knight Riders [Images] team in the Indian Premier League [Images], had till recently said he was happy with his role with the Sourav Ganguly-led IPL side and was not keen to take up the England job.

Asked about the turnaround, Buchanan said, "The cricket world needs a strong England game. I've got some views, thoughts, ideas and opinions I think can assist them in improving their game.

"As I have done with cricket in Australia and in the IPL, I hope I can provide these in a way that would make a small contribution to what they hope to achieve."