PREVIEW…
Today. Kick-off 3pm
SECOND row Sam Monaghan returns from injury to captain Ireland as one of four changes to the side that lost 38-17 to France in their opener.
The 28-year-old Wasps lock, below, missed the clash in Le Mans after failing to pass return to play protocols following a concussion.
Grace Moore is at blindside, having come off the bench last week, with Aoife Wafer moving to openside.
Dannah O'Brien comes in at fly-half and centre Enya Breen makes her first Ireland start since picking up an injury in last year's opener with Wales. Monaghan's co-captain Edel McMahon does not make the squad.
Ireland head coach Scott Bemand said: “We are incredibly excited to bring our game back to Irish shores.
“Last week we saw progression but know we've got to keep going after onpitch performance. We have made some changes to the side from last week and this reflects the competition that is building in the squad.
“We want Irish people to see how much it means and to want to be part of it. Momentum is building within the squad through training and I am confident that the players will give the fans something to get behind.
“We are expecting a tough challenge from an ambitious Italy team. It should make for a real occasion to showcase our game.”
The Azzurre have had to make changes after the injuries suffered by centre Michela Sillari and back rower Giulia Cavina during the 48-0 loss to England in round one.
Beatrice Rigoni moves to outside centre, with Emma Stevanin promoted from the bench to join her in the midfield. Ilaria Arrighetti replaces Cavina at No.8. Hooker Silvia
Turani moves to loosehead with Vittoria Vecchini, making her first matchday, starting at No.2. Sara Tounesi changes from lock to blindside, as Isabella Locatelli moves to the bench.
