At least, thanks to modern technology, that disappointment was compensated for by the result of the next Australia-New Zealand game.
We started out watching this one live on the telly but had to quit it early to make it on time to the second big event. No worries. With an iPhone in each car, we headed off with the live telecasts keeping us up to date.
Fist pumps out the car windows communicated the joy of fallen wickets en route.
Only one was left to fall as we entered the second event and, just past ticket collection, a mighty roar went up from the three sons walking tight-packed around the small screen.
A Black Caps win.
Attention could now focus on the second event and, because we had reserved seating, it seemed no time at all before James Taylor strolled on to the stage, sat on a stool and launched into Wandering.
This man has been an important part of my life since I was a teenager.
Our three sons had no choice but to hear him often as they grew up and they too developed a love of that smooth baritone, those infectious songs and those dexterous fingers working the guitar fretboard in a unique JT way.
At university, everyone I knew had Sweet Baby James in their LP record collection.
I also had the self-titled first album from 1969.
Of course, these were followed by Mud Slide Slim and the Blue Horizon, One Man Dog, Walking Man, Gorilla and so on for decades.
I had already seen JT three times in Australia (during the 70s and 80s) and this latest show followed the established format of a small taste of the latest and a representative back catalogue of favourites.
And Arnold McCuller was still there delivering his classy backing vocals along with an A-list backing band.
After three encores, JT graciously jumped off the front of the stage and signed autographs.
It was a bun fight, a frenzy of outstretched hands, and without looking up he thrust a ticket he had just signed into my hand.
I noticed next morning that it wasn't mine.
Before closing, I feel I must offer passing thanks to another hero of my university days, Tom Rush.
He was the one who first recorded covers of James Taylor (as well as Jackson Browne and Joni Mitchell) and helped bring him (and them) to public attention.
Rush tried to retire years ago but it seems public demand brought him back, and he still tours widely and keeps fans up to date via an email newsletter.
So, it truly was the Christmas spirit all over again.
How could it have been anything else with sweet victory in the cricket and Sweet Baby James sharing his musical love on the stage?
JT, how sweet it was to be loved by you.
- Wyn Drabble is a teacher of English, a writer, musician and public speaker.
