Galle, Sri Lanka: Sri Lanka fast bowler Dhammika Prasad removed Pakistan's openers in quick succession as the visitors struggled at 59-3 at lunch on the first day of the first test on Wednesday.
Prasad (2-28) removed Ahmed Shehzad and Khurram Manzoor cheaply in a lively opening spell after Pakistan captain Misbah-ul-Haq won the toss and elected to bat.
Ace spinner Rangana Herath then clean bowled Azhar Ali for 30 to have Pakistan in early trouble.
Younis Khan successfully overturned umpire Bruce Oxenford's caught behind decision to remain unbeaten on 21 with Misbah yet to get off the mark.
Sri Lanka's most accomplished batsman Mahela Jayawardene led the team on the field and was given guard of honor by children as he will retire after the second test at Colombo.
Earlier Pakistan captain Misbah-ul-Haq won the toss under overcast conditions and elected to bat first against Sri Lanka in the first test on Wednesday.
Pakistan has not played a test for seven months but retained the same team that defeated Sri Lanka in the famous run-chase at Sharjah in January to level that series.