So the captain can have the sight picture.
With the forecast wind 110 degrees at 25+ knots, a circle west may have been preferable to allow a gradual decrease in bank around the turn toward the runway, let alone terrain considerations or which seat is flying.
There's a guy in the right seat who can update the captain on the turn progression. Never had a problem circling right from the left seat. This kind of wind is ideal. But you choose what you choose.
All speculation of course, but the VOR thing raises hairs on the back of my neck.