Roma centre Giovanni Raineri has been handed the fly-half role for Italy's Six Nations clash against England at Twickenham.
Raineri is switched from midfield to replace Ramiro Pez, who has been axed after Ireland exploited his kicking and defensive weaknesses.
With playmaker Diego Dominguez still injured, Italian coach Brad Johnstone will hope that Raineri can make a mark on proceedings.
Former skipper Alessandro Troncon's 21-day suspension means Raineri will be partnered at half-back by Argentinian-born Juan Manuel Queirolo.
Among the backs only left wing Denis Dallan remains in his original position following Italy's 41-22 defeat by Ireland a fortnight ago.
Full-back Christian Stoica goes into the centre, taking over from Northampton's Luca Martin, who moves to right wing for the dropped Corrado Pilat.
Walter Pozzebon takes Raineri's inside centre slot, with Andrea Scanavacca wearing the number 15 jersey
The front-row remains intact but lock Carlo Checchinato is at number eight and Andrea Gritti comes in as Wim Visser's second-row partner.
Italy team: A Scanavacca; L Martin, C Stoica, W Pozzebon, D Dallan; G Raineri, J-M Quierolo; A Lo Cicero, A Moscardi (capt), A Muraro, A Gritti, W Visser, C Caione, M Bergamasco, C Checchinato.