Three decades after his father represented Samoa, Allan Alaalatoa says he will hold his heritage "close to my heart" when he becomes the Wallabies' 85th skipper against Italy. 

The son of Samoan international Vili, who played at the 1991 World Cup, will become Australia's 85th captain in Florence late tonight when he takes over from the rested James Slipper.

It's 15 years since Digby Ioane, whose nephew Monty will incidentally run out for Italy on the wing, became the first Samoan to play for the Wallabies.

"It's really special. My parents migrated over to Australia to provide a brighter future for my brother and me so it's huge for my extended family," Alaalatoa said.

"I hold it close to my heart … there's been a huge amount of support back home, a lot of messages and that adds that to the fuel to make sure I do everything I can to fulfil the role."

The prop will lead a team featuring eight players with less than 10 Tests each under their belts, tasked with beating an Azzurri side that's in form but hasn't beaten Australia in 18 attempts.

Nick Frost (ankle and illness) was a late scratching, with Darcy Swain now starting in his first game since a six-match suspension and Cadeyrn Neville moving onto the bench.

Fullback Jock Campbell also missed Friday's captain's run photo as he too battles an illness that could keep him out of a second-straight start in the No.15.

Queensland Reds teammate Jordan Petaia has been named on the bench but could slot into fullback if needed.

Mark Nawaqanitawase will debut on the wing and NSW Waratahs teammate Ben Donaldson could also earn his first cap after being named on the bench as the reserve five-eighth.