It includes a first cap at openside flank for Scarlets' James Davies.
Coach Warren Gatland has made 10 changes in all to his side, announced on Wednesday, with Gareth Anscombe coming in at flyhalf to replace Dan Biggar and Owen Watkin making his first Six Nations start as partner at centre to Hadleigh Parkes.
George North returns to the starting team which means Liam Williams moves to fullback in place of Leigh Halfpenny.
"It is a great opportunity for Taulupe, he is a world class player, hugely experienced and this will be great for his development and we are looking forward to seeing those leadership qualities come through," Gatland said in a statement.
"It is challenging making changes, but we have picked a really exciting team and Sunday is their chance."
Wales, who have lost their last two games away in England and Ireland, take on an Italian team who have conceded an average of 45 points in each of their three defeats in this year's Six Nations.
Wales have lost just twice to Italy in 25 previous meetings but never at home.
Team:
15-Liam Williams, 14-George North, 13-Owen Watkin, 12-Hadleigh Parkes, 11-Steff Evans, 10-Gareth Anscombe, 9-Gareth Davies, 8-Taulupe Faletau (captain), 7-James Davies, 6-Justin Tipuric, 5-Bradley Davies, 4-Cory Hill, 3-Tomas Francis, 2-Elliot Dee, 1-Nicky Smith
Replacements: 16-Ken Owens, 17-Rob Evans, 18-Samson Lee, 19-Seb Davies, 20-Ellis Jenkins, 21-Aled Davies, 22-Rhys Patchell, 23-Leigh Halfpenny.
(Reporting by Mark Gleeson; Editing by Christian Radnedge)
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