Zimbabwe captain Sean Williams hit a six off the first ball of the day and declared immediately, thus ensuring that the heavy roller is used before the start of the Sri Lankan innings.
A total of 54 overs could be bowled on the third day with a large chunk of the second and third sessions being lost to rains. Zimbabwe ended the day at 241/7, looking to win their first Test since 2011.
The hosts reached 62/1 before play was called off early in the third session due to rain.
