Michael Lumb is a major doubt for Nottinghamshire's LV= County Championship match against Surrey at the Kia Oval as he prepares for the birth of his first child.
Director of Cricket Mick Newell has given Lumb the option to play although his commitments to England's T20 squad would force him to leave the game after close of play on day two.
Neil Edwards will take his place in the side if he is unable to play.
"Michael is in the team but the birth of his firct child is imminent so Neil is on standby to play," said Newell.
"Neil has earned a chance with runs in the second eleven and we need to see something from him if we are to consider a new deal for him next season."
Sam Wood will feature as Newell looks to capitalise on a pitch that is expected to suit spin with Paul Franks, Andy Carter and Steven Mullaney vying for the replacement spot when Alex Hales departs after two days.
"Sam Wood is a genuine all-rounder and his off-spin will be valuable on the pitch we expect Surrey to prepare," said Newell.
"We have to win this game to put any kind of pressure on Warwickshire and the manner in which we bat in our first innings will be vital if that's going to happen."
Nottinghamshire team to face Surrey (from): Alex Hales, Riki Wessels, Michael Lumb, James Taylor, Adam Voges, Chris Read (C), Sam Wood, Graeme White, Luke Fletcher, Ben Phillips, Harry Gurney, Neil Edwards, Andy Carter, Paul Franks, Steven Mullaney