The Australian cricketers arrived in Mumbai early Saturday morning for the four-Test series against India but refused to speak to the media at the Chhatrapathi Shivaji International Airport.

Despite much persuasion from media persons gathered there they insisted they would answer questions only at an official press meet which was arranged on Saturday afternoon.

"There is an official press conference arranged later today and I will speak only during that time," acting captain and wicketkeeper Adam Gilchrist said.

Ace leg spinner Shane Warne, who reached Mumbai on Friday night along with teammate Cameron White, after missing the connecting flight from Singapore, also refused to oblige.

"There is lots of time for interviews," he said, "but not now."

However, Aussie fast bowlers -- Glenn McGrath, Brett Lee, Jason Gillespie and Michael Kasprowicz -- were in good spirits despite a long journey from Dubai. They not only posed for photographs but also flashed the victory sign before getting into the team bus.

Aussie coach John Bachanan too was in his element and went around filming the cameramen at work and was the last man to get into the bus.

The Aussies play their first match against Ranji Trophy champions Mumbai at the Brabourne Stadium in Mumbai from September 30 to October 2, while the first Test commences at Bangalore on October 6.

Injured Australian skipper Ricky Ponting is expected to join the team for the second Test at Chennai.

Among those who arrived on Saturday were Michael Clarke, Jason Gillespie, Matthew Hayden, Michael Kasprowicz, Damien Martyn, Glenn McGrath, Brett Lee and Shane Watson.

Simon Katich reached Mumbai on September 23 while Justin Langer and Nathan Hauritz arrived on Friday.

Middle order batsman Brad Hodge will be arriving only Sunday while southpaw Darren Lehmann will be joining the team later.

The Australia team: Adam Gilchrist (captain), Michael Clarke, Jason Gillespie, Matthew Hayden, Nathan Hauritz, Simon Katich, Michael Kasprowicz, Damien Martyn, Glenn McGrath, Justin Langer, Brett Lee, Shane Warne, Shane Watson, Cameron White, Darren Lehmann and Brad Hodge.

Photographs: Deepak A Salvi