Rod Marsh has stepped down as chairman of selectors for the Australia cricket team earlier than planned following the Test outfit's dismal run.

The 69-year-old was due to walk away from his position when his contract expired at the end of the financial year, but after witnessing Australia lose five Test matches in a row, he will leave with immediate effect.

In a statement, Marsh said: "This is my own decision and no-one within Cricket Australia has pressured me or even suggested that I should do this. Clearly, though, it is time for some fresh thinking, just as it is for our Test team to welcome some new faces as we build for the future.

"I have always had the best interests of Australian cricket foremost in my heart, and that's why I have made this decision. I wish the captain, coach and the team all the best going forward. We will be great again."

Cricket Australia will hold an extraordinary meeting later today to select an interim appointment.