Ireland also dropped Sam Prendagust on Saturday as Mac Hansen, James Lowe, Garry Ringrose and Tadge Farron returned to the team, as Jack Crowley was scheduled to start for Italy in the Six Nations fly half.
Ireland is needed to win a historic third straight title to win a high-scoring victory and other results.
Ireland’s grand slam dream was crushed in the 42-27 demolition by France last weekend, and can only win the third crown if they defeat Italy with bonus points.
With that outside chance still playing, interim coach Simon Easterby has resisted the temptation to renew his frontline player with the only other changes, seeing Jack Conan and James Ryan preferring Joe McCarthy and Peter O’Mahony in the puck.
Crawley was the first-choice fly half in his breakthrough season last year, winning six countries, but had to take the back seat at this year’s championship as Ireland handed out his 10th place jersey to 22-year-old Rainster beginner Plantergust.
Furlong, who missed the first four games with an injury, is enough for fellow prop jack Boyle to return to the bench where he tries to get a second cap. That means there is no place for Cian Healy, who is retired at the end of the championship.
Peter O’Mahony and Conor Murray, who are planning to retire from international rugby along with Healy, are one of the alternatives.
Ireland XV facing Italy:
Andrew Porter, Dan Sheehan, Finlay Bealham, James Ryan, Tado Bealnut, Jack Conan, Josh van der Freier, Kahlan Doris (captain), Jamison Gibson Park, Jack Crowley, James Lowe, Robbie Henhoe, Garry Ringrose, Mac Hansen, Hugo Keenan.
Alternatives: Gus McCarthy, Jack Boyle, Tadge Farlon, Joe McCarthy, Peter O’Mahony, Conor Murray, Sam Prendagast, and Bundy Aki.
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Italy secures a historic victory over Ireland
Ahead of the final round fixture this weekend, we will relive three classic Six Nations games between Ireland and Italy.
– Overreaction: Does Marcus Smith cement the full-back spot? Should Ireland reset?
– Tom Hamilton of Twickenham: The UK will work in Italy and maintain title hopes
– Can you replace Warren Gatland as Wales head coach?
– Watch: Relax some of the Six Nations classic games
– Six Nations and Women’s Six Nations: Full Fixture List