The tourists batted first against the Sri Lanka Board XI but were reduced to 2for 3, with Test hopefuls Joe Denly and Ollie Pope both falling for nought.
However, all-rounder Ben Stokes made 53 from 58 balls and opener Keaton Jennings 45 as England posted 210 for 6.
Wickets were spread around as the home side made 200 for 7 in response.
Both sides agreed to bat for 50 overs after the opening day's play was washed out, but of the top-order batsmen it was only Jennings who made an impression.