Meteorologists are forecasting a torrential downpour ahead of Friday night’s blockbuster qualifying final, but it could be the “perfect storm” for Cats’ veteran Jimmy Bartel.

Geelong will clash with reigning premier Hawthorn at the MCG for the right to advance to a preliminary final, and Bartel says players will need to adapt to the conditions if the weather gods do decide to make their mark.

“It sounds like the perfect storm is coming,” Bartel told 1116 SEN on Thursday morning.

“You make a lot of your decisions based on what the person with the ball is doing – whether you start peeling off for a handball or you start your leading pattern, or whether you go over and outnumber and help out.”

“But I think in wet weather footy, you’ve just got to assume everybody is going to make a mistake. There’s no big science behind it.”

Friday night will mark Bartel’s 27th final, having won three premierships in 2007, 2009 and 2011 – and the proven September specialist is as excited as ever to be put to the test once more on the big stage against the competition’s best.

“I just love being part of the finals. I’m really excited to have the chance to play Friday night against the Hawks,” Bartel said.

“If you don’t get excited for that as a footballer, I guess maybe you’re in the wrong game.”

“It’s intriguing and exciting because we love playing the best and there’s no doubting Hawthorn have been the best side for the last few years. To have a go at the Hawks, that’s what footy’s about.”