# Much-changed Italy give debut to Locatelli against South Africa

- URL: https://talkfuse.com/story/much-changed-italy-give-debut-to-locatelli-against-south-africa/
- Published: 2026-11-05T12:19:38+00:00
- Updated: 2026-11-05T13:56:35+00:00
- Original publisher: CNA (publisher lean: Centre)
- Original article: https://www.channelnewsasia.com/sport/much-changed-italy-give-debut-locatelli-against-south-africa-6527576
- Topics: Africa, Europe, World

## Key points

- Italy have made 10 changes for their match against South Africa.
- Samuele Locatelli is set to make his international debut.
- Giacomo Nicotera captains a side hit by injuries.

## Summary

Italy head coach Gonzalo Quesada has made 10 changes to his team for Saturday’s Nations Championship match against South Africa in Turin, with many changes forced by injuries. Flanker Samuele Locatelli will make his international debut as Italy seek to respond after a heavy defeat to Australia.

Captain Michele Lamaro and several other regulars are unavailable, including centres Tommaso Menoncello and Juan Ignacio Brex, as well as Sebastian Negri and Louis Lynagh. Hooker Giacomo Nicotera will captain the side; Lorenzo Cannone starts at number eight, while Ross Vintcent moves to the bench. Italy lost all three of their Nations Championship matches in July and are due to face Argentina on 14 November and Fiji a week later.

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