Pakistan's bowlers found the breakthrough by taking two wickets in the afternoon session against Sri Lanka, but the series leaders remain in control on 162-2.
Upul Tharanga and Kaushal Silva led the attack on day one of the second Test in Colombo, leaving Pakistan frustrated as they reached 69-0 before lunch.
After the break, Tharanga edged closer to his Test century, but Silva was sent back to the pavilion having hit 41 runs from 106 balls following a delivery from Junaid Khan.
Despite the loss, Sri Lanka continued to dominate the pitch, but they suffered a blow when Wahab Riaz bowled out Kumar Sangakkara (22).
Mahela Jayawardene, who received a guard of honour from Pakistan as he came out to bat in his final Test, remains unbeaten on four runs and will return to the crease alongside Tharanga, who is 81 not out as it stands.
