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Less than a fortnight now, and rugby’s Six Nations championship begins; whatever the weather forecast, the temperature for many enthusiasts will be building by the day. But why does sport make such an impact?

Today All Things Considered looks at the way success or failure on the field can affect the national mood; explores some of the pressures on those involved at different levels, and the ethical issues particularly for those with a religious faith. And we ask, just how far is it right to push yourself – or someone else – in the name of sporting glory?

Joining Roy Jenkins to discuss this are: Chris Jones, Rhondda schools rugby development officer who as a player was regarded as one of the hardest men in Welsh rugby; Geraint Richards, former head of GB wheelchair tennis; Carolyn Hitt, award-winning sports broadcaster and writer; and Peter Jackson who was chief rugby writer for the Daily Mail for 35 years during more than 60 years of sports reporting.