Let's take actual documentation on this tank. For example a very boring 'Методическое пособие по эксплуатации системы управления огнем танка Т-72 Б-3', e.g. methodological guide on operation of T-72B3's fire control system, and open page 6. Paragraph 4.3.5, which describes procedure to enable 'Double' mode clearly urges user to turn cupola to the right in order to gain access to thermal camera controls.
Yes, in SB there is a lot of corners with T-72B3 are cut, and a lot of stuff is simplified, but there are reasons for that.