Pakistan all-rounder Mohammad Nawaz is under investigation by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) following reports of a positive test for a recreational substance.
As a result, he proposed to move to Surrey for England’s T20 blast.
Nawaz, who has represented Pakistan in 98 T20 Internationals, is currently playing for Multan Sultans in the ongoing Pakistan Super League (PSL) season.
A PCB spokesperson confirmed that the matter has been referred to the International Cricket Council (ICC) and the board has initiated its disciplinary proceedings.
“The International Cricket Council has informed the Pakistan Cricket Board about the matter and the PCB has initiated due process. The outcome of the process will be communicated to the ICC today,” the spokesperson said.
The International Cricket Council (ICC) declined to comment.
The positive test is understood to be related to samples taken during this year’s T20 World Cup in Sri Lanka, where Nawaz featured in all seven of Pakistan’s matches.
Nawaz took 15 runs and seven wickets during the tournament as the Green Shirts were eliminated at the Super Eight stage.
The 32-year-old has agreed terms with Surrey and is expected to be available throughout the T20 blast from May 26 to July 18.
The PCB had given him a no-obligation certificate (NOC) for the tournament two weeks ago and Surrey were preparing to formally announce his signing.
However, the deal has now been called off and Navas will not be joining the English county side this summer. Surrey also declined to comment on the matter.
Nawaz has been playing regularly for Multan Sultans in PSL 11 and bowled three wicketless overs in a six-wicket win over Rawalpindi in Karachi on Tuesday.