The 21-year-old Bolton who was a star for the Shimlas last year in the Varsity has toured with the team to South Africa.

The player was linked with a move to the Cheetahs before heading to Galway in an attempt to play for Ireland one day.

Friend told OFM Sport that the former Shimla had developed well at the team.

“His learning on what professionalism is all about and the way he has to conduct himself to get the best out of himself has been a massive learning curve for him.

“But he has done really well and he deserves to be really proud of the way he managed that.

“He is only a young man as we know and he is great to have on tour.

“There is no doubt that he will get some game time and be able to show us and his friends and family here in South Africa what he has learnt and what he is able to do.”

Bolton in his turn told OFM Sport that he looks forward to the opportunity to be able to play in front of his family.

“It was difficult in the beginning, especially missing the family and getting used to the cold weather. But, once you get used to it, it is really nice and I've made loads of good friends.

“The people of Galway have really been looking after me nicely.

“Other than that, I just learnt a lot about rugby and I'm really trying to improve as a player.

“I'm really excited and hopefully I can get to start and try to make my family and friends proud.”

Saturday’s match between the Lions and Connacht at Ellis Park kicks off at 16:05.

Morgan Piek OFM Sport