Reds back Karmichael Hunt has been served with a notice to appear in court after allegedly supplying cocaine and will not play against the Force on Saturday.

The cross-code star, who joined the Reds this season after stints in rugby league and Aussie rules, is due to appear in Southport Magistrate Court on 5 March. Four people, including Hunt, are alleged to have been involved from 1 September to 3 October 2014.

A statement from Queensland's Crime and Corruption Commission said: 'During an investigation focused on a cocaine trafficking syndicate operating in South East Queensland, four individuals were identified contacting the syndicate and arranging for the supply of cocaine.'

The Reds said Hunt would not play against the Force, having been named to start at fullback, as 'it would be best for his welfare that he's not available for selection this weekend.'

The press release also said the Reds 'will not be in a position to determine a formal course of action until; legal proceedings have concluded, as we will not be prejudicing the player's legal, contractual or natural rights.'

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