Wakarua made an impressive international debut in his side’s win over Tonga and also impressed Wales’ own star-man against Canada this week.
“He’s played very well,” said Harris. “He’s a great goal kicker so we can’t give away silly penalties because he is going to slot them over.
“He’s got a good left foot and good hands, so we are going to have to shout at the back three, and he links well with his forwards and backs. He’s a good player.”
But the centre, who received all round plaudits for his own individual display in Wales’ opening match against Canada, and provided the killer pass for Martyn Williams’ match winning try against Tonga, admits the match will be won up front.
“Our forwards have to stand up and get some sort of roll on against them,” he said. “They seem to know each other’s play and they play it very tough in the forwards.
“They are a very close-knit side with a lot of them having played together for quite some time.
“We all watched their last game and have taken things out of it. It’s probably the type of game we wanted it to be, very physical. Canada stood up well and probably performed the best they have here in the World Cup.
“They really took it to Italy and, as a result, it was a really rough, tough game – and that’s what we wanted.
“We are aware of what they (Italy) are going to do on Saturday.
“That’s why we had a lengthy session today and have a plan of attack we think is the right way – although I can’t say too much and give something away.”
Harris’ own performance in his two RWC outings so far have come under intense scrutiny after he dispelled rumours of a planned return to Rugby League.
And the Cardiff Blues star has answered critics in style so far with a 16-point haul from the boot in match one and immaculate displays of running and ball distribution in both games.
“I’ve worked on everything generally,” he added.
“I’ve always felt I’ve had the skills to make it. It’s just touching up on the ones that needed touching up.”
WALES v ITALY (Canberra 24/10/03 09:30 GMT)
Wales: K Morgan; M Jones, S Parker, I Harris, G Thomas; C Sweeney, D Peel; D Jones, R McBride, A Jones, B Cockbain, G Llewellyn, D Jones, M Williams, C Charvis (capt).
Replacements: M Davies, G Jenkins, R Sidoli, J Thomas, G Cooper, S Jones, R Williams.
ITALY: TBC
