Despite Prime Minister Scott Morrison's lobbying for a female candidate, former Australian ambassador to Israel Dave Sharma has won the Liberal Party preselection battle for the federal seat of Wentworth.

Key points: Mr Sharma was endorsed by former prime ministers Malcolm Turnbull and John Howard

Mr Sharma was endorsed by former prime ministers Malcolm Turnbull and John Howard Prime Minister Scott Morrison congratulated Mr Sharma, but said he would like to see more Liberal women in parliament

Prime Minister Scott Morrison congratulated Mr Sharma, but said he would like to see more Liberal women in parliament The by-election will be held on October 20

Mr Morrison and other party heavyweights called for a woman to take the post, and the former ambassador's election may further fracture an already under-pressure Liberal Party.

The PMrecord of service, his record of achievement, his high intellect and his ability to get the job done, I think, will serve the people of Wentworth extremely well."

Mr Sharma, who was endorsed by former prime ministers Malcolm Turnbull — whose resignation sparked the by-election — and John Howard, emerged victorious for the prized preselection after a marathon voting session that lasted more than six hours.

The ABC understands Mr Sharma took the spot with 119 votes in the final round after he and Woollahra councillor Richard Shields emerged as the final two candidates.

Liberal Party insiders said there were "201 voters".

Dave Sharma and Richard Shields were the final two left in the pre-selection battle. ( ABC News: Nick Sas )

After six rounds of voting, Mr Sharma and Mr Shields finished