Liberal leader digs in as support slips away

Opposition Leader John Pesutto has doubled down on his position to stay in his role. (Con Chronis/AAP PHOTOS)

A likely contender to lead the Victorian Liberal Party has quit the front bench as the internal fallout from a major defeat in court threatens John Pesutto's hold on the position.

Liberal MP Sam Groth held several portfolios in the Victorian opposition but quit on Friday afternoon.