The Pink Connection: Why AB de Villiers and Smriti Mandhana Are More Alike Than You Think

In the world of cricket, some players are more than just athletes—they're icons. And every once in a while, two separate stars, from different times and different leagues, share a story that feels almost too similar to be a coincidence. On CricPredictor, we love digging into the stats and stories that connect the game. Today, we're looking at two of the biggest names in modern cricket: the great AB de Villiers and the incredible Smriti Mandhana.

A viral image has been making the rounds, and it perfectly shows some of the amazing things these two players have in common. It's a fun look at how their journeys have mirrored each other. Let's break down the "Pink Connection."

1. The Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) Link

This is the most obvious connection. For a long time, AB de Villiers was the heart and soul of the RCB men's team. Known as "Mr. 360," he hit shots all over the field and was a fan favorite. When the Women's Premier League (WPL) started, Smriti Mandhana became the most expensive player and was picked to lead the RCB women's team.

Both players became a big part of the RCB family. They carry the hopes and dreams of a huge fan base. This shared role in a top franchise makes them feel like two sides of the same coin.

2. The Pink Jersey Power

Have you noticed they both wear pink? This isn't just a style choice. The RCB men's team often plays a match in a special pink jersey for a good cause. We’ve seen AB de Villiers smash sixes while wearing this vibrant color. Similarly, Smriti Mandhana and the RCB women’s team also wear their own pink kits.

This shared look in the pink jersey from the same team shows their unity and powerful presence on the field. It’s a bold statement that says they are here to dominate.

3. Blistering, Record-Breaking Centuries

This is where the real magic happens. Both AB de Villiers and Smriti Mandhana are known for scoring incredibly fast hundreds.

• AB de Villiers holds the record for the fastest-ever ODI hundred, getting there in just 31 balls against the West Indies. It's a record that might never be broken.
• Smriti Mandhana recently scored a sensational ODI century in just 50 balls against Australia. This is a massive achievement and one of the fastest hundreds ever in women's cricket.

Their ability to score so quickly shows they are not just good batters; they are game-changers. For a cricket predictor, this is a key trait to look for! Their quick-fire centuries prove they can turn a match on its head in a blink.

Conclusion: More Than Just a Coincidence

The story of AB de Villiers and Smriti Mandhana is a great example of how similar paths can be for true legends. From sharing a team to wearing the same jersey and, most importantly, hitting some of the fastest centuries ever, their careers have a unique "pink connection."

For fans on CricPredictor, it's a great reminder that great talent knows no boundaries. Whether it's a veteran like ABD or a young star like Smriti, the spirit of fast-paced, entertaining cricket is what we all love to see.