The Cheetahs and Bulls will go head-to-head in the Toyota Challenge that will kick off this week.

Steyn played at flyhalf for the Springboks in Durban on Saturday during their 38-21 win against Argentina. By Monday the seasoned two-time World Cup winner hadn't reported back for duty at the Cheetahs.

This will test the Cheetahs somewhat as inside centre, especially taking into account that Chris Smit left the franchise to join the Bulls. Smit may be a part of the Bulls team that will head to Bloemfontein for the match.

Steyn is set to resume training with the Cheetahs this week, but the assistant coach, Charl Strydom, told OFM Sport that it’s unlikely that he will play.

“We kind of decided three weeks ago who we are going to play in this game against the Bulls, said Strydom.

“The players knew on Friday already what the team will look like and he was still with the Springboks.

“It would be unfair on him to throw him in without knowing what we have been doing. Maybe next week he will fall in after having a week of training with us.

“He is obviously looking forward to seeing and spending some time with his family. He should start training with us this week and then next week he will be available for selection.”

On Friday at 13:45 the Griquas will tackle Emerging Ireland, while at 16:15 the Cheetahs will be up against the Bulls.

Morgan Piek/OFM Sport