Skipper Sarfraz Ahmed was unbeaten on 13 and Haris Sohail 19 as Pakistan still need another 69 runs in the final session to take a 1-0 lead in the two-match series.
Earlier, leg-spinner Yasir Shah took 5-51 -- his 32nd five wicket haul in Tests -- to dismiss Sri Lanka for 138 in their second innings.
With the ball taking spin on a difficult Sheikh Zayed Stadium pitch, Pakistani batsmen struggled against veteran left-arm spinner Rangana Herath (2-19) and off-spinner Dilruwan Perera (2-25).
Perera then had Shan Masood (seven) and a shaky Babar Azam for three to leave Pakistan struggling at 32-4. In between fast bowler Suranga Lakmal had Azhar Ali caught behind for nought. Pakistan, led by Shah, bowled well in the morning.
Sri Lanka, who resumed at 69-4, lost their last six wickets for 69 runs. Niroshan Dickwella fought hard during his unbeaten knock of 40 studded with four boundaries.
The second Test -- a day-night match -- starts in Dubai from Friday.
Disclaimer: No Business Standard Journalist was involved in creation of this content
You’ve reached your limit of {{free_limit}} free articles this month.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
Already subscribed? Log in
Subscribe to read the full story →
Smart Quarterly
₹900
3 Months
₹300/Month
Smart Essential
₹810
1 Year
₹67/Month
Super Saver
₹1,170
2 Years
₹48/Month
Renews automatically, cancel anytime
Here’s what’s included in our digital subscription plans
Access to Exclusive Premium Stories
Over 30 subscriber-only stories daily, handpicked by our editors


Complimentary Access to The New York Times
News, Games, Cooking, Audio, Wirecutter & The Athletic
Business Standard Epaper
Digital replica of our daily newspaper — with options to read, save, and share


Curated Newsletters
Insights on markets, finance, politics, tech, and more delivered to your inbox
Market Analysis & Investment Insights
In-depth market analysis & insights with access to The Smart Investor


Archives
Repository of articles and publications dating back to 1997
Ad-free Reading
Uninterrupted reading experience with no advertisements


Seamless Access Across All Devices
Access Business Standard across devices — mobile, tablet, or PC, via web or app