Both 31-year-old North and centre partner Nick Tompkins are reinstated to the starting line-up having missed out on the 45-24 defeat to France last weekend.
Head coach Warren Gatland has also switched captain Dafydd Jenkins back to second-row to partner Adam Beard having played at flanker last weekend.
Tight-head prop Dillon Lewis comes in for Keiron Assiratti in the only change to the front row with Scarlets Harri O’Connor potentially set for his debut after being named amongst the replacements.
Tommy Reffell has been named despite limping out of the French loss with knee injury, whilst Cardiff’s Alex Mann returns on the opposite flank.
Gatland has opted for a youthful Wales bench with firm eyes on the future. Five of the eight replacements have made fewer than seven test appearances, whilst the front-row trio having just 41 minutes of international rugby between them.
North retirement decision
In a surprise decision, veteran centre North, has decided to hang up his boots on the international scene after Saturday’s match. The home game against Italy will be his 121st and final Wales appearance.
North is Wales’ third most capped player in history behind only Alun Wyn Jones and Gethin Jenkins.
Having initially decided to prolong his Wales’ availability, the departing Ospreys player has had a change of heart but will continue to play club rugby with a move to French side Provence agreed for the 2024-25 season.
“I’ve decided that the game on Saturday will bring my international career to an end,” said North on Social Media platform X.
“I have loved and cherished every second in a Welsh shirt and been able to play alongside some fantastic teammates.
“I’ve been very lucky to have lived my dream. I’m excited for the next chapter – Thank you for all your support over the years.”
Wales head coach Warren Gatland speaking after North’s announcement said:
“George has contributed hugely to Welsh rugby, in an incredible career starting as an 18-year-old. The way that he burst onto the scene… I can remember seeing him play and thinking we need to cap this kid.
“He’s been incredible as a rugby player, but I think the most important thing is how he’s contributed to the squad as a person over the years: how positive and encouraging he’s been within and around the group, things that people wouldn’t have seen in terms of what he’s organised off the field.
“George has been outstanding and a credit to himself. He can definitely hold his head high. He and his family and friends can be very proud of everything he has achieved.
“I look forward to watching George play at Principality Stadium one final time in a red jersey on Saturday and I hope everyone will join me in celebrating him. Diolch George.”
Wales XV to face Italy:
Cam Winnett, Rio Dyer, Nick Tompkins, George North, Josh Adams, Sam Costelow, Tomos Williams, Aaron Wainwright
Gareth Thomas, Elliot Dee, Dillon Lewis, Dafydd Jenkins (captain), Adam Beard, Alex Mann, Tommy Reffell.
Replacements:
Evan Lloyd, Kemsley Mathias, Harry O’Connor, Will Rowlands, Mackenzie Martin,
Kieran Hardy, Ioan Lloyd, Mason Grady.
[Lead image: Welsh Rugby Union]
