Sydney, Feb 6 (IANS): Indian-origin Harry Harinath Wednesday officially stepped down as the chairman of Cricket New South Wales (NSW).

Cricket NSW in a statement said that Harinath had stepped down and he will be replaced by current board member John Warn.

Harinath, however, will continue on the NSW board and also Cricket Australia (CA) board.

Harinath's decision follows the resignation of chief executive David Gilbert in the wake of stinging criticism from former Test pace bowler Brett Lee, and Anthony Stuart's dismissal as coach before Christmas, reports The Age.

Harinath has been the chairman of Cricket NSW for five years before finally deciding to step down at a meeting here Tuesday night.

"I step down as chairman of the Cricket New South Wales Board, knowing what an incredible honour it has been to have been involved with such a great state," Dr Harinath said in a statement.

"It felt like the right time to make the decision and to give the organisation the chance to look to the future.

"It has been a humbling experience to have been part of so many positive developments in recent years and I leave the role knowing that Cricket NSW is in a strong position to move forward.

"I am also confident in the knowledge that John (Warn) will bring a strong commercial background, excellent cricket administration skills and a new energy to the role."

Harinath, who was made an officer of the Order of Australia in 2009, came into cricket administration as doctor of the Balmain club, now known as the Sydney Cricket Club, in 1979