Kirwan got off to a winning start when Italy beat Wales 30-22 in their opener in Rome but after subsequent defeats by Ireland, England and France the Kiwi is hoping the Azzurri sign off with what would be a first away win in the tournament.

"We must be focused from the very first second and give our all, give our soul," said Kirwan before flying out to Scotland.

The main change for Italy is the introduction of L'Aquila youngster Andrea Masi as a centre alongside Giovanni Raineri.

Masi, still only 21, comes in for winger Nicola Mazzucato who will be replaced in the number 14 jersey by Paolo Vaccari.

Scrum-half Alessandro Troncon will set a new Italian record of 76 caps at Murrayfield - passing the mark of 75 set by Carlo Checchinato last year.

At half-back Troncon is again paired with Ramiro Pez who now seems to have replaced Diego Dominguez as first-choice stand-off for the Italians, with a question mark now also hanging over the 36-year-old ahead of this year's World Cup.

But Kirwan insisits Dominguez is still in his plans for the World Cup.

"Diego is part of the team and I am sure he will be important in the future," he said.

"But I think it's only fair to give Pez his chance - it's his role and I am sure he will be up to it.

"Masi deserves to play from the first minute. The boy has shown maturity and the ability to take his chances when he gets them. He has looked very convincing in training."