Happier times ... Cricket NSW chief executive David Gilbert (right) with Dean Jones.
David Gilbert has resigned as chief executive of Cricket NSW after 11 years in the role.
Gilbert fronted a board meeting on Monday night where it is understood he faced serious pressure to fall on his sword - or risk being sacked.
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His position had come under the spotlight following the shock sacking of NSW coach Anthony Stuart midway through December, which led to a scathing outburst from champion fast bowler Brett Lee.
Cricket NSW announced on Monday night Gilbert had resigned and would leave the organisation at the end of the month.
The former Australia quick claimed it was his decision to step down and said he had not been influenced by outside pressures.
"I am now at the point where I am ready to take on a new challenge," Gilbert said in the statement.
"This is not a sudden decision. It is something I have been contemplating over the past 12 months.
"As far as recent commentary is concerned, it comes with the job and I've never shied away from it.
"The simple truth is that I've been in the role for much longer than most sports administrators could ever dream of.
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"Now that the busiest period of the season has passed, I feel it is right to give the board ample time and opportunity to search for my replacement."
Lee called for Gilbert's sacking, rather than that of Stuart, at the time - leading to Lee being issued with several notices for breaching Cricket Australia's code of conduct.
But those charges were thrown out during a marathon three-hour hearing, which was attended by both Lee and Gilbert.
It was seen as a slap in the face for the veteran administrator, with Lee then invited by Cricket NSW to join a sub-committee of its board to help with "the future direction of cricket in NSW".
Gilbert has come under fire for a series of decisions which have led to the state side falling out of finals contention in the one day format and to fourth in the Sheffield Shield.
Promising young batsmen Phillip Hughes and Usman Khawaja fled NSW to join rival states where they have reignited their international careers while the dismal performances of the two Sydney Big Bash sides have also drawn scrutiny.
The reigning champions the Sydney Sixers were unable to reach the finals despite coming off a triumphant Champions League tournament, while the hapless Thunder failed to win a game all summer.
Earlier this month Lee declared his desire to bring Cricket NSW back to its halcyon days - describing Gilbert's tenure as "tough times" for the sport.
Cricket NSW chairman Harry Harinath paid tribute to Gilbert's contribution.
"David has overseen a period of tremendous growth and development for cricket throughout NSW," he said.
"... He is responsible for a number of important achievements that have benefited both those who play the game and those who watch."
