But in Kane Williamson's mind what matters most is today and another chance for success.
New Zealand had what coach Mike Hesson called "a bad week" in Bangladesh, when they were dusted 3-0 in October/November. But before that, there were ODI series wins in South Africa and England last year, no mean achievement.
The West Indies, shorn of several players through injury, are battling. Time, then, for New Zealand to nail the coffin shut.
"It's very much [about] this game and we know how important it is for our team to keep improving and building on each performance, so this team is moving in the right direction," Williamson said yesterday. "There's a series win on the line and if we can keep playing the cricket we want to at the level we want to play it, then ultimately wins will come."
West Indies keeper Denesh Ramdin has bemoaned their injury toll but knows they have a final opportunity to pick themselves up in the ODI series: "We've been a long time away from home and the guys are looking forward to going home but at the same time we're tuned up to give a good showing. New Zealand have been clicking on all aspects of the game so it's going to be tough."
Their bowlers have been clobbered, the batsmen seem unable to make sufficient runs.
The West Indies desperately need somebody to lead the way in each of those departments.
New Zealand have turned the series on its head and uncovered a new hero in Anderson. When it comes to destructive hitting, there may be no better double act in the ODI game than Ryder and Anderson.
If New Zealand win today they'll go ahead of the Windies into seventh spot on the ICC rankings, on the same points, 88, but having played fewer games. It mightn't sound much, but every step counts.
