Hansen, who took over two years ago after a record defeat in Dublin against Ireland prompted the resignation of Graham Henry, will afterwards link up with his fellow New Zealander when he assumes a coaching role with the All Blacks as assistant to Henry.

Wales, who collected the wooden spoon last year after failing to win a match, will be certain of fourth place in the championship if they overcome an Italian side yet to win an away fixture in the 6 Nations.

Hansen has made two changes to the side that came so close to causing an upset against world champions England last weekend with veteran lock Gareth Llewellyn replacing the injured Brent Cockbain and Martyn Williams coming in for flanker Jonathan Thomas who has a shoulder problem.

Llewellyn will equal the Welsh record of 87 caps set by outside-half Neil Jenkins.

Italy, with victory over Scotland to their credit this season, have made three changes - one positional - to the side beaten by Ireland in Dublin last weekend.

Centre Matteo Barbini and number eight Scott Palmer are replaced by Andrea Masi and Carlo Checchinato.

Checchinato's switch from lock means Santiago Dellape comes in at second row, but the veteran forward faces a fitness test on a calf muscle problem.

If he is passed fit, Checchinato, who is set to bring his 14-year test career to an end, will become Italy's most capped player with 84 appearances.