In an unusual move, Gatland has replaced the entire front row and both half-backs from the 30-15 victory over Scotland a fortnight ago.

Llanelli Scarlets duo Stephen Jones and Dwayne Peel, who came off the bench together against Scotland and guided Wales to victory, both get their first chance to impress Gatland from the start.

Up front, Newport Gwent Dragons tight-head Rhys Thomas makes only his second Test start while Gethin Jenkins and hooker Matthew Rees are promoted from the bench.

As a result of the key changes, Gatland broke with tradition and named his side 11 days before the game to give them maximum preparation time.

Gatland said: "The guys who have played in the first couple of games are in the box seat at the moment. It is a chance for the guys who have performed really well for us off the bench to push for places.

"I am going to look pretty stupid aren't I if we don't win at home (after making all these changes).

"The players coming in have a massive responsibility to do the job. Italy have shown in the first couple of games that if we underestimate them we could embarrass ourselves."

Wales have not beaten Italy since the 2005 Grand Slam campaign, having lost in Rome last season and drawn 18-18 at the Millennium Stadium two years ago.

They are also chasing a third straight victory for the first time in three years, and do so against an Italy side who lost both their opening games but gave both Ireland and England a real scare.

Azzurri coach Nick Mallett has lost his entire back three, with full-back David Bortolussi plus wingers Pablo Canavosio and winger Kayne Robertson all injured.

Mallett opted to retain Andrea Masi at fly-half and start with the inexperienced Andrea Marcato at full-back.

Gloucester lock Marco Bortolami, who missed the opening two games with an eye injury, returns on the bench.