At Jaipur, October 21, 2006 (day/night). Australia won by six wickets. Australia 2 pts. Toss: Australia.

Although neither captain would make any reference to the forthcoming series either before or after the match, thoughts of the Ashes infiltrated every cranny of this contest. England made a steady if unspectacular start, reaching 83 without loss in the 18th over. But as sure as there are black kites gently wheeling over any Indian city, so an England collapse was never far away. Pietersen, promoted to No. 3, was softened up by a short, quick delivery from Johnson and gave a catch behind next ball, while Flintoff pulled a short one from Watson straight to Hussey after making only four. As in England's first match, Collingwood tried to hold firm, but ran out of the willing or able. He was stranded on 22 when England were all out, yet again failing to bat out their full quota of overs. Anderson and Mahmood (who bowled Gilchrist from round the wicket) struck early on as Australia slithered to 34 for three in the dew, but Harmison was again profligate. A fourth-wicket partnership of 118 by Martyn and Hussey, who could afford not to take risks against Yardy, all but took Australia home. Their victory - and with it the first psychological points in the Ashes battle - was ultimately a comfortable one.

Man of the Match: D. R. Martyn.