(3)
Meanwhile, the Italians were doing the business in Scotland and will be seeking their fourth win in a row in the championships having ended the 2018 campaign with victories over Wales and Scotland. For Wales, it will be a case of trying to arrest a run of five successive defeats as they go in search of their first away win since they last beat Italy 20-8 in Ancona on 4 February, 2017.
Tries from Caryl Thomas, Dyddgu Hywel and Carys Phillips set up that victory and Thomas and Phillips will be back on duty in Lecce. They provide the experience in a side that is brimful of youth, talent and commitment.
"The game against France was very difficult all-round, but we have confidence in the abilities of these players to bounce back and show what they can do. Physicality will again be key against Italy," said Wales head coach Rowland Phillips after announcing four changes, two of them positional. to his side this week.
"The Italians have benefited from the momentum of an autumn series and showed how much they've progressed with an impressive win in Scotland. They have some excellent players, a strong pack, backs who can play wide and they have developed into a very competitive side.
"We have to keep our energy levels high to meet the challenge of two consecutive away games in a week."
There will be a big midfield battle between home hero Beatrice Rigoni and Welsh centre Alicia McComish. While Rigoni scored a try, she also made a massive impact with her tactical kicking and also made 117 metres with her 12 carries.
McComish will have to be on her mettle to keep her quiet, but she got in plenty of practice with her 28 tackles in last weekend's game in France.
Bristol Bears' Elinor Snowsill is set to win her 50th cap if she comes on from the bench this evening.
