Gatland rings the changes

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Gatland has also named a whole new front row, with Gethin Jenkins, Rhys Thomas and hooker Matthew Rees given their first starts of this year's RBS 6 Nations Championship.

The other change is on the wing where Mark Jones, who was dropped following the win over England at Twickenham, returns in place of weekend debutant Jamie Roberts.

Gatland had promised changes following the 30-15 victory and he has taken the unusual step of announcing his line-up 11 days before the game to ensure maximum preparation time.

"We've made six changes but are in the enviable position of being able to do so without weakening our line-up," said Gatland, who has brought in players boasting a total of 239 caps between them.

"Players have put their hands up with performances from the bench and in Stephen, Dwayne, Mark and Gethin we are a bringing a wealth of experience and talent into the side.

"Italy are tough opposition and have been progressing well under a new coach in Nick Mallett.

"They gave England a scare last week and they always rise to the occasion and pick up a result somewhere in the Six Nations. We need to be on our guard."