London:Following his inclusion in the national team, Indian pace spearhead Zaheer Khancould lose his berth in county side Worcestershire's squad for the next season.

Zaheer was a tremendous success for Worcestershire last season and capturedmore than 100 wickets, helping the club garner a couple of promotions. Thecounty stint played a crucial role in Zaheer's comeback to the national side.

But, as the Mumbai-based player looks certain to continue with the Indian team,Worcestershire is contemplating his replacement.

"We are very close to making a decision regarding Zaheer. If that avenueis closed, there are 10 people on (director of cricket) Steve Rhodes' list whowe will then talk to," Chief Executive of the club Mark Newton said.

"India wouldn't wanthim to play for us for the first half of the summer before the tour of Englandstarts and nor would he want to. I don't think," he said.

"In one sense it would be ideal because the early part of the season,given the conditions, is when he is at his most effective but it is not goingto happen. It is a yes or a no - not a part compromise for part of theseason," he added.

Another left-arm seamer, Nathan Bracken of Australia, is the front-runner forreplacement of Zaheer in the club.

"Nathan is one we would consider. He is clearly a very good bowler, isperforming well at the moment and we are delighted that he is interested but wehave still to make a final decision on that," Newton said.