MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - SEPTEMBER 30: Dion Prestia of the Tigers celebrates kicking a goal with team mates during the 2017 AFL Grand Final match between the Adelaide Crows and the Richmond Tigers at Melbourne Cricket Ground on September 30, 2017 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Cameron Spencer/AFL Media/Getty Images)

He hasn't played since Round 5 but Dion Prestia is on track to return for the finals.

Prestia underwent ankle surgery in July after suffering a syndesmosis setback but will take part in match simulation next week and is set to be ready for the finals.

"Dion is a wonderful player – a best and fairest winner – and hasn't played for us for a long period of time, but he just makes us better by being out there," Hardwick said.

"If he's putting his hand up to play, I'm picking him."

Shai Bolton is certain to be available for the Tigers' qualifying final after a corked calf prevented him from playing last night, while Tom Lynch will also return from a hamstring injury.

Josh Caddy (knee) and Jake Aarts (shoulder) both suffered knocks in last night's 44-point win over Adelaide, but are both expected to be available for the qualifying final.