Final answer:
Whether a game should be played with only five players depends on the sport's rules and the league's regulations. If allowed, and the team is willing, it is up to officials and opponents to agree as long as conditions are safe and fair.
Step-by-step explanation:
Whether a game should be played with a team having only five players depends on the rules of the particular sport and league in question. In many team sports, starting a game short-handed is allowed as long as the team has the minimum number of players required to play according to the sport's rules. For example, in basketball, five players constitute a full team, so a team with five players would be allowed to play. However, playing with fewer players than the opposition can be a significant disadvantage, and the team must be prepared for challenges such as increased fatigue and reduced strategic options.
In cases where the rules permit it, and the short-handed team is willing, it usually rests with the discretion of the officials and opposing team. Before proceeding, it's crucial to verify this with the specific league or tournament guidelines, as well as to ensure that the playing conditions are safe and sporting for all participants.