Mallett has responded by making three changes with Kris Burton returning to the starting lineup for Luciano Orquera after being dropped for the Twickenham debacle.

There are six survivors from the last Italian team to beat Wales, 23-20, four years ago including inspirational captain Sergio Parisse.

That day Wales were left furious at referee Chris White as the game ended in controversial fashion with the visitors denied a final lineout as they pushed for a winning try.

But, despite facing a side who had not won in eight matches prior to a encouraging 24-6 win over Scotland, Mallett is under no illusions as to the challenge facing his charges.

"We always go into games as underdogs in the Six Nations and Wales are definitely big favourites on Saturday," said Mallett who has won just twice in 17 attempts in the Six Nations.

"I have never understood why they went eight games without a win. They have a great team packed with British Lions.

"We just have to go out and do as well as we can in the set piece and take it from there."

Two years ago Wales needed a late Tom Shanklin try to avoid embarrassment after putting out a weakened side in Italy and they have no intention of making the same mistake again.

Gatland has been forced to make one change with James Hook moving to outside centre after of Jonathan Davies' injury with Stephen Jones returning to the fly-half role.

Otherwise the team remains unchanged as Wales look for a second successive away win which could reignite their Championship ambitions.

And skipper Matthew Rees insists the side has long moved on from the 2007 defeat.

"I think that as a team and as individuals we've come a long way since then and I know there were a few boys in the side that day which are still involved," said the Scarlets hooker.

"Everyone speaks about that game, the fans and mainly in the press, but I think as players it's passed now, we're a lot better team as individuals since then and we know what to expect from the Italians.

"We are just concentrating on our own game and if we can get our own game right then I'm sure we will come away with the victory."