In an appointment being seen as a big coup for the game in the state, the nation's second longest-serving leader has been named a patron of Cricket NSW.

Howard's nomination was confirmed by members at Monday night's annual general meeting, where Cricket NSW reported a $2.9 million profit and a rise in participation in the game in the state of 17 per cent.

He was convinced by John Warn, the senior Westfield executive and CNSW chairman, to take up the post and his standing could be key as cricket looks to state and federal government investment amid intense competition for talent from other sporting codes.

Howard was not a top cricketer – the much-replayed vision of his backyard bowling in Pakistan in 2005 proved that – but the news formalises a long and undisguised appreciation of the sport that featured regularly during his 11-year prime ministership and later nearly led him to become one of cricket's most powerful officials.

He delivered the first Bradman Oration in 2000, had a question about the country's greatest cricketer in the citizenship test during his government and once called the legendary batsman and Test captain the "greatest living Australian".

He also delved into the explosive world of cricket politics, creating a furore by labelling Muttiah Muralitharan a chucker, and used the game as a vehicle to mount political pressure via the boycotting of tours to Robert Mugabe's Zimbabwe, where Australia are now playing a one-day tri-series.

It was a stance that would ultimately hurt his candidacy for the ICC vice-presidency, which was rejected in 2010.

If his new role is not quite what his sponsors for the ICC job, the boards of Australia and New Zealand, had in mind for him, administrators in NSW are thrilled to have Howard on board alongside existing patrons Alan Davidson and Sir Nicholas Shehadie.

"John has always had a strong interest in the game of cricket and he will provide a wealth of knowledge and experience in his new role," Warn said. "Cricket NSW is blessed to have three individuals who care deeply about our great game and its continued growth within the state."

Following a season in which NSW won the Sheffield Shield for the first time in six years, there was also a sense of reconciliation on Monday night with the awarding of life membership to former Test bowler and CNSW chief executive David Gilbert.

Gilbert resigned two summers ago amid a torrent of discontent about the organisation led by a call for his sacking by Brett Lee. He was given life membership along with former NSW batsman, selector and current board member Marshall Rosen.

"During his 11-year tenure as CEO, David oversaw a period of tremendous growth and success for the organisation and we should all be grateful for his commitment and passion and for the contribution that he made both on and off the field," Warn said.