Now it matters.
Walloping Sri Lanka by 98 runs was no more than just a good start, really.
Steamrolling England for 123 runs was a lot of fun but, in essence, little more than a footnote.
And the tense one-wicket win against Australia was a more of a thrilling distraction than a substantial achievement.
The big prize is still at stake.
And everything the Black Caps have achieved in the World Cup until now will not count for much if they are upset by the West Indies in the quarterfinal in Wellington today.
The home side has certainly been one of the form teams with six wins from six games.
The Black Caps completed pool play with a three-wicket win against Bangladesh in Hamilton last Friday.
They had to work a lot harder than usual.
The win was achieved without skipper Brendon McCullum blasting lots from not very many, or Kane Williamson playing a starring role.
And for once New Zealand's potent new ball attack of Tim Southee and Trent Boult did not run through the opposition.
But as far as a dress-rehearsal for today's quarterfinal goes, it was just what the country ordered.
Martin Guptill found gaps in the field on his way to a century.
Ross Taylor spent some valuable time in the middle.
There is always the prospect the Windies' Mr Cool - Chris Gayle - will go ballistic.
Having a big run chase behind them ought to stand the Black Caps in good stead.
