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Episode details

Sounds,25 Feb 2022,44 mins

Esports - twiddling thumbs or genuine sport?

The Sports Desk

Available for over a year

With revenues of $1 billion and a global audience approaching half a billion, esports is one of the fastest growing sectors in the media and entertainment industries. But is it right to put competitive video gaming on an equal footing with more traditional sports? It’s a debate that’s entered the mainstream with esports set to feature at the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham as a pilot event this summer – and 24 esport medals up for grabs in the Asian Games later this year. We hear from Commonwealth Games CEO Katie Sadleir on why esports can help capture a new audience and from former GB swimmer Sharron Davies, who thinks computer gamers have no place at the event. Plus, a FIFA pro gamer tells us why esports can benefit your physical and mental health. Panel: Delyth Lloyd, Dan Roan, Nesta McGregor & Steffan Powell Producer: Sam Sheringham

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