There are 18 debutants included in the Azzurri squad, including Zebre back-rowers Dries van Schalkwyk and Abraham Steyn, while young fly-half Edoardo Padovani is also selected.
Van Schalkwyk has been particularly prominent for Zebre since his arrival three years ago, and De Rossi is optimistic that he will prove to be an example to other overseas players coming in who have international ambitions down the line.
"I'm really pleased with the deserved call-ups for Padovani - who has worked really hard since last spring and shown his desire to be called up through his play with Zebre - and Van Schalkwyk," said De Rossi.
"As it should be, when the performances on the pitch are worth it, Dries has managed this unexpected call-up which has worked so hard for.
"It's a process that could serve as an example to other players who in the future might be able to have this opportunity thanks to the work they put in for Zebre."
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Guinness PRO12 Zebre News
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