Nottinghamshire bowler Darren Pattinson would have to feature as an overseas player if he was to renew his contract at Trent Bridge next season.
Pattinson has signed for Melbourne Renegades in next year's Big Bash in Australia and is, therefore, unable to maintain his status as an English-qualified player.
The English born seamer was born in Grimsby but moved to Australia before returning to make his county cricket debut in 2008 when his form earned him an England Test call.
Pattinson's current deal expires at the end of the season.