Cheli’s third score proved to be the difference during an absorbing encounter in which Italy took the lead four times in Caerphilly.
It was a game that neither team deserved to lose, but ultimately Wales came up just short despite bagging four tries of their own.
The two sides were quick out of the blocks as they both looked to assert themselves over the other during the opening exchanges.
Wales were then able to up the ante and enjoyed success down the left wing with Nia Fajeyisan in particular causing Italy problems with her speed and athleticism.
But it was Italy who broke the deadlock after 18 minutes through talismanic captain Elena Errichiello.
The No. 8 has been a constant spark for her side during this Women’s Summer Series, and she was able to cross over following a strong showing from her forwards near Wales’ tryline.
Lavinia Pratichetti ensured the extra two points, but the competition hosts rallied after falling behind.
Molly Wakely breached the Italian backline on 25 minutes, capping off a period of Welsh pressure to get them on the scoreboard, and the side led by Branwen Metcalfe took the lead 10 minutes later when the dangerous Savannah Picton-Powell skilfully scored.
Italy hit back after the break and took advantage of a Welsh lineout error five metres from their line.
The throw went long from the touchline and Cheli capitalised to drive over. Pratichetti was clinical from the tee once again as Italy found themselves leading 14-12.
But the game continued to unfold in a pendulum-like fashion as four minutes later, Wales retook the lead.
A blistering move got the home side within touching distance of the Italian tryline down the right, but when it became obvious the left side would prove fruitful, the ball was worked brilliantly out wide, and Seren Singleton was on hand to finish the move off.
Italy’s physical prowess has been a strength of theirs through this Women’s Summer Series and Cheli was able to score a virtually identical second try to her first – burrowing over off the back of a ruck – to hand back the initiative to the team in blue.
Much like a heavyweight slugfest, both teams continued to trade blows, and Chiara Pearce landed the next telling shot, dotting down to edge Wales back in front for a third time.
However, Cheli’s third close-range try with six minutes to go, and Pratichetti 100% conversion record, proved decisive in one of the games of the competition.