A Josh Adams hat trick paved the way for Wales en route to a convincing 42-0 victory over Italy. 

The game was the first in charge for both coaches, Wales' Wayne Pivac and Italy's Franco Smith. The former took the share of the spoils, his side building up a 21-0 lead by halftime through three Dan Biggar penalties and a pair of tries from the electric winger Adams. 

Debutant Nick Thompkins, who plays for Saracens in England but qualifies for Wales through his grandmother, scored the opening try of the second half, and the shifty center looked lively all game. 

George North, starting at center for the first time in his 92nd cap, scored his 40th try for Wales in the 75th minute, and on the final play of the game Adams completed his hat trick, blasting over from close range. 

Flanker Justin Tipuric was a menace at the breakdown and a wizard in open play as usual, and for his efforts received yet another man of the match award. 

Overall, Wales were a tad sloppy in patches, but the defense looked as good as ever and the team appeared comfortable in its gradual transition from "Gatland-ball" to "Pivac-ball." 

Italy still have much work to do, and looked lost on ideas for much of the game. If there is a silver lining for the Italians, their scrum was mostly dominant all game, winning at least three penalties at scrum time. 

Next week sees Wales travel to Ireland and Italy head to France for Round 2 of the 2020 Six Nations.