New Zealand side Canterbury say they have held "informal discussions" with England all-rounder Ben Stokes.
Stokes, 26, is not part of England's Ashes tour after being arrested on suspicion of actual bodily harm.
He was seen at Heathrow airport on Monday, prompting speculation he was heading to Australia, but he has travelled to New Zealand to see family.
Canterbury's next fixture is on Sunday, which is the second day of the second Ashes Test.
"Following the recent speculation surrounding Ben Stokes coming to New Zealand, Canterbury cricket can now confirm that they have been in initial informal discussions with Ben Stokes' representatives regarding his potential availability," a Canterbury statement said.
England, the Ashes holders, lost the first Test against Australia by 10 wickets in Brisbane.
