KARACHI, June 23: Former Olympian Ayaz Mahmood said here on Thursday that Pakistan hockey can be revived by adopting an innovative approach to the game such as introduction of 7-a-side hockey under lights.

“We have got to be innovative to attract youth and sponsors towards the game,” the 1984 Los Angeles Olympic gold medallist said in an interview.

“Without broadening the scope of the game and attracting youth towards hockey, it can not be revived. Day-night games in cricket revolutionised the sport and such steps are needed in hockey as well,” he asserted.

Ayaz said indoor hockey and 7-a-side hockey in Europe helped in developing better brands of players and the same could be achieved in Pakistan.

“We can match Europe by popularising indoor and 7-a-side hockey which can prepare the players for future,” he said.—APP