Pakistan, facing defeat in the second Test against Sri Lanka, reached 6-265 at tea on the fourth day in Dubai on Saturday.
Sri Lanka removed Pakistani skipper Misbah-ul Haq for 97 before tea to press their claims for a win and take a 1-0 lead in the three-match series after the first Test ended in a draw in Abu Dhabi.
At tea, Sarfraz Ahmed (39) and Bilawal Bhatti (seven) were at the crease with Pakistan leading by just 42 runs in the second innings.
Paceman Nuwan Pradeep (2-50) and Rangana Herath (2-106) were the pick of Sri Lankan bowlers.