Pakistan took a 1-0 lead in their three-game ODI series against Zimbabwe after defeating the visitors by 26 runs at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium in Rawalpindi.

The series also kicked off the start of both teams' 2023 World Cup qualification campaigns.

Shaheen Afridi took five wickets while Wahab Riaz took four as the hosts held off a gutsy fight back from Zimbabwe.

Brendan Taylor recorded his 11th ODI century to take Zimbabwe to 234-4 as they chased a target of 282 and what would have been a stunning win.

However, Shaheen had Taylor caught by Riaz shortly after the latter had bowled Wesley Madhevere.

Zimbabwe then went on to lose their last six wickets for just 21 runs to finish at 255 in 49.4 overs.

The two sides will meet again for the second ODI at the same venue on Sunday.

This was the first competitive match by Zimbabwe since authorities suspended all forms of cricket in the country in March due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The series also saw a return to cricket in Pakistan as the side was one of a number of teams hosted by England between July and September.

Incidentally, this is also the first time since 2006 that Rawalpindi is hosting an ODI.

(With input from International Cricket Council)