Hierarchical porous MWCNTs/ZnO (MCZO) nanocomposites are prepared using a Zn-based metal organic framework (MOF) template. In these MCZO nanocomposites, the ZnO polyhedrons (similar to 600 nm) with MWCNTs inserted consist of nanosized building blocks (similar to 10 nm) and possess a large specific surface area of 94.13 m(2) g(-1), robust pore structure as well as highly uniform morphology. When tested as anode material for lithium-ion batteries (LIBs), as-synthesized nanocomposites manifest enhanced lithium storage performance with high reversible capacity (419.8 mAh g(-1) after 100 cycles at a current density of 200 mA g(-1)), good rate capability and cycling stability, which could be attributed to the synergetic effect between the MWCNTs and the stable porous ZnO polyhedron structure. (C) 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.