The former Under-19 international was recently signed by Ireland as an overseas player, but could qualify for the Irish or England.

"I have talked about it with a few people - it's always an option," the 22-year-old told The Sunday News.

"Both of my parents' dads are from England. And my dad has got a British passport."

Ryder had already counted himself out of next month's New Zealand A tour of northern Australia.

And a series of non-cricket issues have hounded his domestic career.

Effectively thrown out of Central Districts in 2004 for disciplinary breaches, a refusal to join the preliminary 30-man squad for last year's Champions Trophy further harmed his prospects.

"I don't worry about playing for New Zealand anymore, to be honest," the Wellington right-hander admitted.

"It would be a good challenge playing for England. I know I am only young. But I have had two very good New Zealand A tours and stuff like that - but I don't even get a chance.

"I've been doing a job on the field. So I can't see why they didn't give me a go.

"I am still pretty young. Every now and then you do some stupid things - but I am still scoring runs and taking wickets."

Fitness issues have also counted against Ryder in the past and his recent form - one century in nine first class matches in 2006/07 - would not alert the national selectors.

The latest indications are that Craig McMillan will replace Nathan Astle on the 20-man list, while Otago wicketkeeper-batsman Gareth Hopkins will take veteran Mathew Sinclair's place.

Batsman Lou Vincent, who admitted to talks with South Australia last week, is a likely inclusion.