Franco Smith has named a squad largely similar to the group selected for the autumn international window, with the addition of six uncapped players.
Wales-born Stephen Varney made appearances off the Italy bench in Nations Cup games against Scotland and France last month.
Italy are on a horrible losing streak in the Six Nations and things won't get any easier with title-chasing England in Rome on Saturday.
Ireland began the Six Nations restart with a 50-17 win over Italy, but they will fear they have left title door open for England to pounce.
Matches haven't been played in the Guinness PRO14 since March 1 but it roars back into action with six games this weekend... here are all the chosen XVs.
Buoyed by their resilience in the 22-35 round two defeat to France in Paris, interim head coach Franco Smith has kept the faith with his starting XV.
New Azzurri boss Franco Smith has opted not to make wholesale changes following last weekend 42-0 beating at Wales.
Interim Azzurri boss Franco Smith has pulled a surprise by including an uncapped lock who has featured in the local Italian league this season for Petrarca.