State opposition leader in the crosshairs as party splits over ‘desperate’ backflip on Moira Deeming readmission

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The Victorian opposition leader, John Pesutto, will face a leadership spill on Friday, with Berwick MP Brad Battin emerging as his most likely challenger.

Battin and Liberal MPs Sam Groth, James Newbury, Richard Riordan and Bridget Vallence on Sunday called a party room meeting for Friday, where Guardian Australia understands a motion to spill the leadership will be moved.