Wallabies to face Italy in Padova

Spring in his step: Giteau to be new pivot?

The Wallabies have announced that they will open the European leg of their Spring Tour against Italy in the city of Padova on November 8.

The ground Stadio Euganeo, which has a capacity of 32,300, has been designated as the venue for the Test against the Azzurri, falling a week after the final Bledisloe Cup match against the All Blacks in Hong Kong.

Australia last played in Padova at the smaller Stadio del Plebiscito in 1996 when David Campese became the first Wallaby to reach 100 Test caps in a 40-18 win over the Italians.

Wallabies' Tour schedule:

Saturday 1 November

Australia v New Zealand at Hong Kong Stadium, Hong Kong

Saturday November 8

Italy v Australia at Stadio Euganeo, Padova

Saturday November 15

England v Australia at Twickenham, London

Saturday November 22

France v Australia at Stade de France, Paris

Saturday November 29

Wales v Australia at Millennium Stadium, Cardiff

Wednesday December 3

Barbarians v Australia at Wembley Stadium, London