The UAE followed up their opening win over Afghanistan with another strong performance that leaves qualification to the tournament proper in their hands.

If Aaqib Javed’s team beat Oman in their final fixture on Monday or Afghanistan fail to beat Hong Kong, they will advance to the main tournament to face India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka.

Chasing 147 for victory, Mohammad Shahzad (52) struck his first fifty for the UAE to provide the platform for success.

Muhammad Usman, who put on an unbeaten 48 with Shahzad against Pakistan, also continued his impressive form with the bat, making 41 in 45 balls to steer the UAE’s reply.

Shaiman Anwar’s 25* saw the team through, before Javed sealed the points in style.

Earlier on in the day, Mohammad Naveed’s four over spell of 3-14 restricted Hong Kong, with Javed also chipping in with 2-21.

Babar Hayat had top scored with 54 of Hong Kong’s total of 146-7.