The 36-year-old hung up his boots in November but will join the struggling defending champs as cover for Welsh fullback Leigh Halfpenny.
But despite the hosts historically poor start to their campaign, the hosts know a wounded Crusaders side is often the most dangerous.
Franks was originally only shown a yellow card, but it was quickly upgraded to red.
AM’s Lloyd Burr also pointed out a strange response from the Prime Minister.
The team from the capital are the only unbeaten side remaining after four rounds.
You know it's great when your opposition is talking about it.
The reeling Super Rugby Pacific champions may suffer another blow.
Anton Lienert-Brown, Rieko Ioane and Ethan de Groot all left the field with concussion.
Captain Peter O'Mahoney hinted the game could be his last for the Irish.