Renowned sports commentator Song Shixiong spoke to a conference of sports hosts and broadcasters on Sunday, April 8, 2007. [Photo: Stardaily]

China Central Television (CCTV) has invited well known sports broadcaster Song Shixiong, who retired in 2000, to return to report during the Beijing 2008 Olympics, the Star Daily reported.

The deputy chief of CCTV, Sun Yusheng, extended the invitation on Sunday at a conference of television sports hosts and broadcasters, hoping the adept commentator will add to a strong Olympics reporting team.

Facing the invitation, Song Shixiong didn't offer a clear reply immediately. He shared some of his opinions about sports commentary at the conference.

Song Shixiong was born in 1939 and started his career as a sportscaster in 1960. Marked by eloquence, vivid descriptions, quick wit and enthusiasm, he worked in sports commentary for about 40 years.

In addition to inviting the renowned commentator, CCTV plans to select sportscasters and hosts for the Olympics nationwide to meet the need of heavy report workload and guarantee the quality of programs.