King’s men, who were defeated by England earlier this season, have already downed Ireland and Scotland so far this campaign and will look to make it three wins from four games when they face the Italians.

King has handed a start to the squad’s only Dragon, Leighton Bellamore, while Blues trio Matthew Screech, Ellis Jenkins and Calum Thomas all start for the first time.

But despite meeting the Azzurri in scintillating form, King insists Wales – featuring young starlet Tom Prydie - will be taking nothing for granted.

King said, "The players have worked really hard over the past month and it would be great to finish on a high.

“We certainly won't be under-estimating Italy but with good conditions predicted, we would like to show the true potential of this team.

"There is a lot of competition for places in the starting line-up and this game provides a chance for a number of players to get their first starts of the season.

“Calum will captain the side after showing natural leadership both at Under 16 level last season, and on and off the field this year.

"This match provides an opportunity to further prepare the players to hopefully make the next step on the international player pathway."

Following Wales v Italy, Ireland take on Scotland at 4pm.

Wales Under 18 v Italy

Tom Prydie (Ospreys); Leighton Bellamore (Dragons), George North (Scarlets), Luke Williams (Scarlets), Eli Walker (Ospreys); Matthew Morgan (Ospreys), Aled Davies (Scarlets); Rob Evans (Scarlets), Kirby Myhill (Scarlets), Will Griff John (Blues), Cory Hill (Blues), Matthew Screech (Blues), Ellis Jenkins (Blues), Calum Thomas (capt, Blues), Dan Baker (Ospreys)
Replacements from: Jack Dando (Blues), Darran Harris (Blues), Samson Lee (Scarlets), Luke Hamilton (Scarlets), Owen Sheppeard (Blues), Thomas Young (Blues), Tom Habberfield (Ospreys), Joseff Griffin (Blues), Sam Campbell (Blues), Harry Robinson (Blues) Harley Thompson (Blues)