County champions Sussex will have to begin the defence of their title without star bowler Mushtaq Ahmed.
The evergreen leg-spinner, who took 102 wickets in the 2006 Championship, will be at the World Cup in the Caribbean in his role as Pakistan assistant coach.
Rana Naved-ul-Hasan is also certain to be involved with the Pakistan squad.
Sussex begin their season against the MCC on 13 April and play their first Championship game on 18 April, with the World Cup final not until 28 April.
Professional Cricket Manager Mark Robinson insisted there was enough strength in depth at Hove to cover for the absentees, even though the Pakistan duo took 137 wickets between them last season.
English players Matt Prior and Michael Yardy are also outside candidates to feature in the World Cup.
"We'll be waiting for the final World Cup squads to be announced on 15 February before we make any firm decisions and we will consider different solutions to the different scenarios presented to us," Robinson said.
"Should we lose Yardy I may consider an overseas batter but we are not guaranteed to go for two overseas replacements, thankfully knowing in advance has helped to plan accordingly and if any one of those Sussex players do remain at Hove, then that's a bonus.
"I back all my players and I see it as a great opportunity for any one of the team to step up and take their chance.
"There are enough match-winners in the Sussex squad for me not to worry unduly by any absence."
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