The Viceroy acceded to the request of General Azavedo. The supplementary armies landed here. Azavedo was able to capture Balana rock which was an entrance to the Kandyan Kingdom. Then King Vimaladharmasuriya realized that his position was extremely dangerous. He understood that it was difficult to stop the advance of Azavedo.

From the experience of earlier revolts, like that of Domingo Corea, the king had very well learnt that it was useful to create disunity among the Portuguese soldiers. Dividing the army was a better strategy than waging war. With this in mind he had his discussions with the commander of the mercenary army.

The king promised to make Pinno the King of Sitawaka. So he requested him to work against the Portuguese. Pinno made this known to Azavedo. Then Azavedo planned to trap the king in the very trap he was laying. So he instructed Pinno to agree to the king’s request.

So he started secret dealings with the king. But nothing remained a secret as Pinno was in the habit of informing Azavedo everything that was discussed. He told General Azavedo that most probably, King Vimaladharmasuriya’s army would come to Pinno’s camp to capture the Portuguese and to take control of the Captain Major.

Earlier this post was held by a local person. At this time it was held by a Portuguese soldier, who had married the sister of Nikapitiya Bandara who ruled Sitawaka. He was Simon Pinno by name. He was friendly with the Sinhala people. King Vimaladharmasuriya started transactions with him.