Years of hard work has finally paid off for Mumbai all-rounder Shivam Dube on Thursday who has earned his maiden call-up for India. He said he loves power-hitting and would love to continue his aggressive brand of cricket, which helped him earned the maiden call-up to the Indian team. He made into the Indian T20 squad for the three-match series against Bangladesh next month as all-rounder Hardik Pandya is still not recovered yet from back surgery.

“I have a bit of natural power and I work on that. My father always wanted to make me an aggressive batsman and that became my lifestyle. I love power-hitting,” Shivam Dube told after his selection. “I would like to thank God and my dad. Specially my dad, who always supported me and it was his dream (that I play for India).”

Shivam Dube thanked all his well-wishers after his selection. He got the call up on the back of a whopping 1,012 runs in 16 first-class matches so far.

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“It is a good feeling. You (journalists) blessed and supported me throughout. I was expecting a call. I was sure shot of my selection. I felt that my performance was good, so I would be in (the team). I was positive about it,” said Dube. “I will continue to work hard. I haven’t thought about (my goals yet). At the moment, I am happy. As an all-rounder I need to be there with 100 per cent focus and good fitness.”

Dube recalled his brother’s support when he was not picked for the Mumbai U-23 squad.

“That time, my brother supported me. When my financial condition was tough, my brother supported me,” he said. “He (Kohli) always helped and supported me. If I was under pressure or faced any problem, I spoke to him (Kohli) and he would always make me understand.”