The Cheetahs were forced into a late change just hours ahead of the crucial Super Rugby unlocked encounter with the Sharks.
Fresh from creating history as a two-time World Cup winner with the Springboks, the 32-year-old has turned his attention to his club future and what to do about his deal in France.
For a team that has never won a Rugby World Cup match in 20 attempts, things aren't about to get any easier for Namibia.
After fielding what many regarded as a ‘B’ team last week against the Wallabies, Rassie Erasmus has named a much stronger XV to take on the All Blacks in Wellington this week.
Frans Steyn had hoped his lobbying might convince Bismarck du Plessis to follow him home from Montpellier but it hasn't worked out that way.
Braam Steyn may have once dreamt of pulling on the Springbok jersey but has no regrets as he seeks to help Italy provide the fatal blow to South Africa's Rugby World Cup hopes in their Pool B clash at the Shizuoka Stadium
South Africa's 31-man squad to face France features Francois Steyn and Chiliboy Ralepelle, while Warren Whiteley will captain the team.