The three-match ODI series is part of the International Cricket Council's World Cup Super League. Seven of the 13 teams in the league will directly qualify for the 2023 Cricket World Cup in India.

In Pakistan's first home international game with no fans because of COVID-19 restrictions, Sohail top scored with 71 off 82 balls and Imam made 58 off 75 on a slow wicket at the Pindi Cricket Stadium.

Left-arm spinner Tendai Chisoro (2-31) and fast bowler Blessing Muzarabani (2-39), who is making a comeback after two years, were the pick of Zimbabwe bowlers.

Zimbabwe didn't show any rustiness despite this being their first international game since March as they tied down Pakistan's much-fancied stroke players through their pace and spin early on.

Babar Azam, who won the toss in his first ODI as Pakistan skipper, hit three crisp boundaries in his knock of 19 before he was caught behind off Muzarabani while attempting an expansive drive away from his body.

Imam survived a television referral for an lbw when on 11 and went on to hit six fours. However, soon after completing his half century he fell to a bizarre run out when he and Sohail both ended up on a striker's end.

Sohail developed cramps in his legs and finally departed in the 42nd over after hitting six fours and two sixes when offspinner Sikander Raza (1-45) had him caught behind.

All-rounder Imad Wasim successfully overturned a caught behind decision against him early in his innings and went on to play a little cameo of 34 not out off 26 balls. Pakistan made 87 in the last 10 overs to reach a reasonable total.

Pakistan gave an ODI debut to fast bowler Haris Rauf, who received his cap from bowling coach Waqar Younis before the toss.

Australian Associated Press