British special forces and American troops are reported to be leading the hunt for Taliban leader Mohammed Omar 300 miles.
The British have so far not been among the international forces taking part in Operation Anaconda to take out Taliban and al-Qaida fighters in caves around Gardez.
The search for the Taliban leader is being conducted in raids under a shroud of secrecy in the southern border areas.
Omar disappeared on December 6 with trusted aides as part of a deal surrendering Kandahar.