Taulupe Faletau will captain the side, while all-action Scarlets openside flanker James Davies will win his first cap.
Head coach Gatland spoke to the media on Wednesday to explain his selection.
Here’s what he had to say…
On Taulupe Faletau….
“Taulupe as captain is part of his development in the group. It’s a great opportunity for him and he jumped at it when I asked him.
“He is pretty quiet, but that will encourage other people around him to be vocal. We have been working on others in the group contributing.”
On James Davies…
“We know he has done exceptionally well in the last couple of years for the Scarlets and we want to see if he is capable of making the next step up and performing in international rugby.
“It’s a great chance for him. I spoke to him and he knew he was going to get a chance in one of these games.”
On Gareth Anscombe…
“Gareth Anscombe deserves a chance. He has been sharp when he has come on and given us some real attacking flair.
“I said to him before the Ireland game that I didn’t know if I had made the right call at 10 with Dan. Biggar. It’s a great opportunity for him to step out as a starting 10.”
On making 10 changes…
“There is some real experience coming back into the side with George North, Justin Tipuric and Liam Williams to full-back. Then there’s a chance to give some younger players an opportunity with experience around them.
“Scott Williams has a bad haematoma and Samson Lee has been sick, while it is a chance to rest Alun Wyn Jones who has played a lot of rugby.”
Tickets are still available to watch Wales against Italy at Principality Stadium on Sunday, March 11.
